Stop Dog From Barking – Dog Behaviour Problems
May 6, 2010 by Dog Trainer Filed under Barking Dogs
In order to stop your dog from barking it is important to understand why he or she is barking. Dogs bark for lots of reasons but almost all of them are an attempt to tell us something. Incessant, constant barking can drive you crazy but in my experience getting angry, losing your temper or shouting at your dog to be quiet usually only makes things worse and makes the dog even more anxious.
The main reasons your dog barks are, seeing another dog, someone approaching the house, needing to go outside, wanting food, wanting to play or boredom. Your dog has learned that if he barks he will get attention which can mean getting food, getting let outside or even getting scolded is attention to your dog.
Obviously every dog barks and it is not healthy to expect him to completely stop barking. What is possible is to stop constant barking which can be very frustrating. To do this it is important that your dog does not get any attention when he barks. You must not speak to him, shout at him or make eye contact and he will soon learn that barking does not get him anything.
The other reason your dog barks is boredom. It is important that you exercise and stimulate your dog every single day. He should either get a 40 minute walk or a game of frisby or football, anything which allows him to drain his energy and stop him feeling like he has to vent his frustrations and energy through barking. If you leave your dog drained and tired you will find his barking will be greatly reduced.
Learning to stop dog from barking can be a very trying time and it requires patience. If you want to teach your dog to be well behaved and obedient, it is important to make sure he/she understands your commands. You can get a comprehensive dog training handbook at http://www.thedogtrainingsite.info covering all aspects of dog ownership, from understanding your dog to problem-solving to complete obedience work.
Eoin McDonnell is an engineer who has had several dogs and cats over the years. He has learned the importance of obedience training with dogs as a benefit for both the owner AND the dog and establishing a happy relationship with your dog which will last his/her whole life
