How to Train an Older Dog to Not Bark Without Hurting Them

The popular adage states that "you can't teach an old dog new tricks." This is simply not true, particularly when it comes to behaviors that are causing a disruption. Barking is a natural trait of dogs but when your elderly pooch is barking at the mailman two blocks away, it is time to address a long-neglected issue. An infinite amount of patience, persistence and consistency are needed to teach your dog to remain silent but this task can be accomplished by any dog, even an old one.

Things You'll Need

• Water bottle
• Treats

Instructions

1. Remain calm when your dog begins to bark. Showing emotions such as panic, annoyance or anger confirm to the dog that he should, in fact, be as upset as he is.

2. Give your dog a command to stop the barking, such as "No." Some owners have had luck with a command for the specific behavior, such as "Enough." Whichever command you choose to give, be consistent and do not change the cue.

3. Reward your dog with a treat or praise if she complies with your command.

4. Squirt your dog with a water bottle if he continues to bark after you have given your command. This harmless correction startles the dog, distracting him from the person or object he was barking at to begin with.

5. Command your dog to "lay down" once you have successfully gotten her attention. This reinforces your position as the dog's "pack leader" or "alpha dog." Psychologically, the alpha dog is the one who decides what is a threat and what isn't. The dog should recognize that if the alpha dog is not concerned, she should not be either.

6. Repeat this process each time your dog barks. As the training progresses, wait a little bit longer to praise your dog for ceasing to bark. This enforces that the calm demeanor and silence is what is being rewarded, not the cessation of barking.

Tips & Warnings

• Be patient. A dog will not respond to this type of treatment overnight. Some days will be worse than others. This is normal. Consistency in training will improve this condition over time.

• If your dog barks into a frenzy to the point where she is ignoring all commands, keep her on a leash until you can commence with further training. The leash is a physical reminder to the dog that she must answer to her "alpha." She will be less likely to ignore the commands.

• If possible, invest in curtains or window blinds. These remove the temptation to bark at passersby. If your dog cannot see them, he is much less likely to bark at them.

• Speak to your veterinarian if the barking is a new problem of sudden onset. Underlying medical problems can cause a dog to act out with new behaviors. A veterinarian can also recommend a qualified trainer if you feel you cannot handle the training process alone.

• Never physically reprimand your dog for barking. Your dog is trying to protect her home and pack or family. Using physical discipline reinforces the irrational thought that protection is needed and may cause your dog to not just bark but become aggressive toward unknown persons.

References

• "Scaredy Dog! Understanding and Rehabilitating Your Reactive Dog;" Ali Brown; 2004
• "Handbook of Behavior Problems of the Dog and Cat;" Gary Landsberg BSc DVM Dipl ACVB, Wayne Hunthausen BA DVM, Lowell Ackerman DVM PhD Dipl ACVD MBA MPA; 2003
• "Handbook of Applied Dog Behavior and Training, Vol. 1: Adaptation and Learning"; Stephen R. Lindsay; 2000