Keep Your Dog From Barking

There are some occasions where it is expected or possibly even helpful for your dog to bark, such as an uninvited intruder in your home. However, a dog’s bark can quickly change from being helpful to just being stressful or bothersome. This can be especially problematic in an apartment or condominium, where you’re living in close proximity with your neighbors and a barking dog can be easily heard. There is hope with training techniques and products to help stop your dog from barking.

First off it’s important to realize that many dog’s barking stems from his boredom. Proper exercise can cut down on barking. If a dog isn’t getting any attention, barking sometimes seems to be his way of getting your attention – even if it’s negative attention. Beyond making sure your dog is getting enough daily exercise correct training is helpful to get him to stop barking.

This first technique owners will want to try in training your dog not to bark: immediately address the dog when he is inappropriately barking by going to your dog, tapping it on the nose, and saying “no” in a “I mean business” tone of voice, then immediately leave the dog or continue with your walk and not playing with the dog after punishment. Spraying a dog with water instead of verbally chastising it might work better in some situations, though many dogs don’t mind being wet. If you find you can’t solve the problem on your own, you might want to find a professional behavior trainer.

Anti-barking products can also help break your dog of their bad barking habits. Electronic collars, citronella collars, sound-emitting collars, remote sound-emitters, medication, muzzles, and debarking surgery might all be appropriate, depending on the situation. These items, except for surgery, can be used temporarily while training is still in the process. Some trainers or kennels offer overnight training and will incorporate the owner into the training, so he can uphold the trainer’s ground work.

Taylor writes on a variety of other subjects, including how to select an xlarge dog bed.