How to Stop Barking

Train your dog to stop excessively barking.

Barking is normal behavior in dogs. They do it for a variety of reasons, including anxiety, excitement, boredom, to seek attention and as a warning. Depending on the situation, a barking dog can be a negative or positive thing. For example, a barking dog can alert you to the presence of someone on your property. Regardless of why your dog is barking, if it is excessive or it makes others uncomfortable, you may need to take steps to stop it.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Dog treats
• Corrective collar

1. Walk your dog as often as possible. Many dogs bark because they are bored, frustrated or lonely. Take your dog for long walks and to a dog park if one is available in your area. Let it play with other dogs to satisfy its social needs, while giving it the exercise it needs. This can help alleviate negative feelings, thus reducing the need to bark.

2. Change your daily routine. According to PetEducation.com, dogs who bark when they are alone may have separation anxiety. In order to reduce your dog's anxiety, you need to change your habits. For example, instead of always going through the front door when you leave for work, use the back door sometimes, or pick up your keys first instead of last in your morning routine. In addition, leave chew toys for your dog to play with to distract it while you are gone.

3. Teach your dog a "stop barking" command. Choose a command word or phrase that would signal your dog that you want it to stop barking, such as "Stop Barking." However, you must use this command in the same firm tone of voice every time and only when the dog is barking. Wave a treat in front of it while saying the command. Reward your dog with the treat when it stops barking. Do this only when it stops barking. If it continues to bark, scold it and withhold the treat until it stops.

4. Take your dog to obedience school. This is especially beneficial if you do not have the time or patience to teach your dog yourself. You can either let the trainers teach your dog not to bark or take part in the training process. At the end of the training, your dog will have learned how to properly obey your commands.

5. Place a corrective collar on your dog. These are beneficial if you are not at home when your dog is barking. They produce an electric shock, an offensive smell or irritating sound when your dog barks.

Tips & Warnings

• Training your dog not to bark will take time, so be patient.

• Some dog breeds are more prone to barking than others. Consult a veterinarian to see whether your dog's excessive barking is normal.

References

• Placerville Veterinary Clinic: Train Your Dog to Stop Barking
• Perfect Paws: Puppy & Dog Barking Training Info
• Pet Education: Excessive Barking: A Common Behavior Problem