Dogs are man’s best friend. But sometimes, that friendship can come with a lot of noise. Excessive dog barking can be an issue for the dog owner and his neighbors, but it can also be a sign that something is wrong. With a little patience and training, you can help your dog overcome excessive barking and instead, enjoy one of life’s greatest pleasures: having a pet.
1. Understand Why Your Dog Is Barking
Dogs bark for many reasons, from expressing excitement or happiness to warning off intruders. First, to prevent excessive barking, you must figure out why your dog is barking in the first place. Is it because they’re scared? Are they bored and trying to get your attention by barking?
Some causes of this common behavioral problem include:
Boredom or Loneliness
Dogs that are left alone for long periods of time often bark out of loneliness or separation anxiety. If your dog barks when you’re not around, try increasing the amount of time you spend with them daily. Also, while they are alone for extended periods of time, try providing them with puzzle toys and interactive games in your absence.
Fear or Anxiety
Dogs that bark excessively may be doing so out of fear or anxiety. If your dog seems to be barking more when they’re around certain people or animals, try socializing them more to those people or animals to get them used to those that trigger their barking.
Wanting Attention
Dogs may bark excessively to get attention from their owners –– even if it’s negative. If your dog is barking for attention, try giving them positive reinforcement when they remain quiet and ignoring them when they bark. Don’t punish your dog; despite what some popular trainers insist, the “alpha” theory does not discourage bad behavior.
Having Pent-up Energy
High-energy breeds, like Australian Cattle Dogs, may bark more as an outlet for their excess energy. If your dog is barking due to pent-up energy, try getting them to exercise more or amp up their mental stimulation.
In general, if you’re not sure why your dog is barking excessively, it might be a good idea to consult a veterinarian or certified dog trainer to get to the root of the problem. Once you know the cause of your dog’s barking, you will be able to start working on a solution.
2. Introduce Your Dog to New Things
One of the best ways to stop excessive barking is to socialize your dog. This means exposing them to different people, places, and situations so they can get used to being around new things. The more comfortable your dog is with their surroundings, the less likely they are to bark excessively.
While socializing your dog, you’ll also expose them to new things, which can build your pet’s confidence. You can start desensitization training without even leaving home. Start by showing them the object from a distance and giving them treats. Then, move closer and continue giving them treats until they’re comfortable with the object.
3. Use Sight Barriers
If your dog is barking excessively because it can see something outside, you can try using sight barriers. This could mean closing the curtains or blinds in your home or putting up a fence in your yard. By blocking your dog’s view, you can help reduce their anxiety.
4. Start Obedience Training
One of the best ways to stop any unwanted behavior in your dog is to train them with basic obedience commands. This will help them listen to you, even when they’re feeling excited or anxious. Start with basic stuff and then move on to more advanced commands.
Get your dog to listen to you by teaching them commands such as:
- Quiet: This is the most important command for issues of excessive barking. It’s important to use a calm voice when giving this command, as yelling will only excite your dog and in turn, make the barking worse.
- Sit: Use this command to get your dog’s attention and stop them from barking. Once they sit, you can give them a treat or toy to keep them occupied.
- Stay: This command is useful in situations where your dog is barking at something outside. By telling them to stay, you can keep them from running out the door.
- Down: Useful when your dog is barking for attention. By telling them to lie down, you can help redirect their focus.
Consistency is key when training your dog. Be sure to use the same commands, tone of voice, and body language each time. This will help your dog understand what you’re asking of them.
5. Reward Non-Barking
When your dog is obeying your commands, be sure to give them plenty of praise and rewards. This could mean treats, petting, or even just verbal praise. By rewarding your dog for good behavior, you’ll reinforce the desired behavior.
6. Increase Your Dog’s Outdoor Time
A tired dog is a happy dog, and a happy dog is less likely to bark excessively. Take your dog for long walks or runs, play fetch with them in the yard, or sign up for a doggy daycare where they can play with other dogs. The more exercise your dog gets, the less energy they’ll have to bark excessively.
7. Consult Your Dog’s Veterinarian
If you’ve tried all the above and your dog is still excessively barking, it’s important to consult your veterinarian. There could be an underlying medical condition that’s causing the behavior, and your vet will be able to help you determine what that is and how to treat it. With the right help, you can get your dog’s excessive barking under control and enjoy a peaceful home once again.
Frequently Asked Questions About Excessive Barking
Do Dogs Get Tired of Barking?
No, dogs do not get tired of barking. Barking is a natural behavior for dogs, and they will continue until the stimulus (what they’re barking at) is gone.
How Do I Get My Dog to Stop Barking at Other Dogs?
If your dog is barking excessively at other dogs, you can try using a muzzle or training collar. This will help to prevent your dog from barking and will allow you to better control their behavior. You can also try obedience training and rewards to help stop excessive barking.
