Dog Barking

Dog Barking Problem: Excessive Barking

It is unfair to stop your dog from barking altogether. All dogs bark and they bark for various reasons. However, if your dog is barking uncontrollably, you may be the one who unintentionally encouraged this behavior. As you know, dogs are social animals and if your dog is confined or neglected for long periods of time, it is very likely that your dog is bored, under exercised or lack of attention. Dogs that are isolated for long periods of time may take up barking as one of their hobbies to get the attention that they long for. Soon this barking behavior will become an enjoyable habit and they will continue to do so if you do not make any corrections to this behavior.

Knowing Your Dog Basic Needs

Dogs are social, pack-oriented animals. All dogs need sufficient exercise to lose that extra energy in them. A socially isolated dog is prone to develop some dog behavior issues such as excessive barking, howling, whining, aggression, chewing, digging holes and other forms of destructive behaviors. If you’ve been neglecting your dog all these while, it is time to make a major correction now before it becomes too much for you to handle later. Take your dog out for walks regularly (at least 30 – 45 minutes daily). Or you could take him to the dog park daily or weekly so that he could make friends and socialize with his other doggy friends. Playing some fun games with your dog like the “Hide and seek” game and obedience training are all great mental exercise activities for your dog. Make the obedience training an enjoyable time for both of you.
Training Your Dog to Stop Barking

If your dog is barking excessively, make sure to act quickly to stop this behavior before it becomes too annoying to you and your neighbors. It is at best to train your dog to stop barking while you’re at home. Do follow these guidelines to train your dog to stop barking unnecessarily.

* While you’re at home, simulate a situation that will trigger your dog to bark. If your dog tends to bark when someone rings the doorbell or knocks on the door, ask someone to help you practice this exercise with you.
* Whenever your dog runs to the door and bark, using a leash or a collar, grab him and with a firm tone, say “Quiet” or “No Bark”.
* If he does keep quiet, praise and reward him.
* However, if the barking persists, hold on to the muzzle of his mouth, and firmly shout, “Quiet”. Massage his body gently to calm him down. Then, praise and reward him.
* If everything fails, you may also consider purchasing the dog barking collar to assist you in training your dog to stop barking.

Dog Barking DON’TS
Do not punish the dog for barking. Regardless of any training method you choose, never scold or abuse your dog.

Recommended Dog Barking Training Equipment:

* Dog Leash
You need a dog leash when training your dog to stop barking. Using a dog leash is important so that you can control and make corrections whenever your dog starts barking.
* Dog Collar – Dog Barking Collar
Dog barking collar (available in pet stores) that is designed for the purpose of controlling your dog from barking works well if the barking continues. Choose one that can humanely, safely and effectively control your dog to stop barking. Seek professional advice if you’re not sure which is the best to choose.
* Dog Treats
Give your dog some dog treats if he stops barking. Dog treats works as a great reward for your dog for exhibiting good behavior.