Training Your Dog Not to Bark
A dog barks because this the only way he knows to communicate with humans and other animals. While there are good and justified reasons for a dog to bark, excessive barking is simply not acceptable or well tolerated in most residential communities.
A dog may bark out of frustration, due to separation anxiety from the owner, out of boredom because of lack of attention, because of lack of exercise and play time or because of outside noises. You can often find ways to decrease your dog's barking problem through various training methods. First it will take patience and dedication on your part to train your dog to not bark. It ‘s easier if you start training your dog while he's a puppy. Puppies are easier to teach than adult dogs.
If you decide to train your dog yourself, you may consider taking some time off from work for from time to time and have someone else help you out for at least the first couple of months, or as needed.
For the first few days, you shouldn't allow your puppy to bark. Whenever he barks, simply put your hands around his muzzle and tell him to "quiet". When he stops, release your hand, praise and reward your dog. Little by little your dog will recognize the word "quiet" and over time he will quickly respond to the command word "quiet". Remember to always praise and reward your dog every time he follows the "quiet" command. Persistence is the key. The dog should be allowed to bark sometimes but make sure that you correct him when he starts barking excessively. Teach your dog to not bark while playing outside in the backyard as well. This is when taking the time off from work pays off. You get the chance to teach your dog the rule step by step giving him a chance to grow up to be a well behaved dog. You truly have to be determined to work with your dog every step of the way.
If you have an older dog, you have to be extremely patient, dedicated and determined to work with such a dog. There are not quick or easy solutions. If you are thinking of trying an anti-barking collar, use the ones like the citronella or water spray types of collars rather than shock collars. Before you decide on a training method to reduce barking, you must first find the causes that trigger your dog to bark. In some cases, you can remove or reduce the problem after you pinpoint the problems causing your dog to bark. If you hear your dog barking at people passing by, try not to yell at him because he will just assume that you are imitating him. If your dog barks out of stress, yelling will only make the matter worse. Try to find out if he needs something or if he's asking for your attention at that moment.
You need to make time to spend with your dog every day. Barking is most often a need of attention due to frustration and loneliness. Don't leave your dog outside for extended amounts of time. Dog loves being part of the family and you must make him feel part of your family. This includes leaving your dog inside, giving him individualized attention and playing and exercising with him every day. If you don't have the time to give your dog, you seriously must consider getting a different pet to fit your life style; a cat might be better for you, or maybe a goldfish.
Another idea to help train your dog to stop barking is just a plain water pistol. Most dogs don't like water especially if it's aimed at their faces. They will learn quickly to cease barking. Those who love water, you might think of adding something else into the water like lemon to let them know that you are not playing this time but you expect them to quiet when asked. Whatever method you decide to choose, make sure it's not physical punishment or the use of something that may injure your dog for life. You could look into de-barking your dog as well. This operation is fairly painless and your dog will never know the difference. He will still be able to communicate but this time softer and quieter. If all else fails, before you make the decision to send your dog to the animal shelter, contact a dog trainer and see if he can offer ways to reduce your dog's barking.
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