How to Stop My Dog From Barking When My Boyfriend and I Kiss

Dogs bark for attention, communication and to threaten opponents.

Dogs are domesticated animals, but they still have pack instincts. Dogs consider human owners a part of their pack, and dog packs have a specific structure. If a dog barks when two people kiss or get close, it is acting as the pack leader and being possessive. This behavior can lead to dangerous aggression, such as dog biting. Teach your dog that you are the pack leader to stop this behavior.

Instructions

1. Stop your dog immediately when it begins to growl by using a consistent noise such as a clap to get its attention. Stand up straight and use an authoritative voice, but do not yell.

2. Walk through doors before your dog. Tell your boyfriend to do the same. This shows the dog that you are the pack leaders.

3. Walk your dog every day, especially before your boyfriend comes over. Walking stimulates the dog's mind and tires out the body, which may help it lose interest in barking.

4. Tell your dog to sit before opening the door when your boyfriend comes over. Do not open the door until the dog is sitting still.

5. Greet your dog, and have your boyfriend greet your dog, by entering your home calmly and without making eye contact with it. This helps your dog from becoming too excited.

6. Stop your dog from sitting on the sofa or on your lap when you are sitting with your boyfriend. Teach the dog that it must wait until it is invited into your lap, and remove it when it jumps up.

7. Respond immediately when your dog begins to bark. Clap or make a sudden noise to stop it, walk to the dog and stand over it until it stops barking. Repeat this each time without yelling or raising your voice until the dog stops.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a leash to keep your dog close by so it cannot run away instead of being corrected for its misbehavior.

• Socialize your dog with different people and animals.

• Crate your dog or keep it in another room until it learns to behave appropriately.

• Never yell or raise your voice at your dog; this causes it to become more excited.

References

• Responsible Pet Ownership; Jealousy and Possessive Behavior in Dogs; Linda Cole; 2009
• Dog Breed Info Center; Why You Need To Be "Top Dog"; 2011