When you are working on dog training for teaching your dog not to bark, it is important to understand that some barking is a good thing. A dog that never barks will be of little use when a burglar comes calling or the dog is trying to protect you. Dogs communicate through barking as well, so you don’t want to completely muzzle (affiliate) them. With barking, you want to eliminate the unnecessary barking and keep the rest. Here are some tips to accomplish that very thing:
Remember that Attention is What the Dog Is Looking For
If your dog is barking and you are responding every single time, they will continue to bark. Why not? The dog wants your love and attention and you are paying attention every time he does it. Consider ignoring certain types of barking so that the dog will not be misunderstanding your intent.
Close the Curtains and Pull the Shades
Dogs are often barking at perceived intrusion on their area. If someone rides by the front of the house on a bike, the dog will bark to let them know they need to stay off his turf. Close the windows and doors and you take away his visual triggers somewhat. This is good when you are first teaching them not to bark.
Use Treats Elsewhere When they Bark
If your dog loves a particular type of treat, use those treats to redirect his attention to another area of the home. The point is to get them thinking about somewhere else and something else. A treat in the next room can be a powerful way of overcoming their barking, albeit temporarily.
Don’t Ever Yell
When you yell at a barking dog, you are simply joining them. Dogs think that when you yell you are barking. You are wasting your vocal cords. Don’t speak overly sweet either, however, because they may think you are praising the behavior. Instead, speak in an even, stern voice.
Stay Persistent and Upbeat
Your dog is a willing learner and will want to make you happy. No dog is going to purposely be a slow learner. If you have a dog that doesn’t pick things up quickly, don’t give up. You will get there if you persist and keep a good outlook. Your dog will get excited about learning if you do, so give them your best.
Barking is a very frustrating thing for a great many dog owners, but to a dog it is totally rational. Liken it to a parent scolding their child for speaking or crying as a baby. Think of your puppy as a small child that needs patience and a firm hand to only bark when it is appropriate. You will learn your dog’s barks and which ones to allow over time.
