Barking Dog Driving You Crazy? How To Stop Dog Barking

There is a time and place for just about everything. Dog barking, however, is one of those things that pet owners have a hard time justifying. Most people are looking for a dog barking solution. So how do you stop a dog from barking?

Let’s start at the root of every dog barking problem. Why do dogs bark? A barking dog is a dog that’s trying to get someone’s attention. They’re either trying to get the attention of another dog, a stranger, or you. In one way or another, they’re yelling “I’m here! I’m here!” Additionally, most dogs only have one level of barking – loud. Dogs can’t quiet their bark like you can quiet your voice. Dogs don’t have a whisper or and “inside voice.” The best dog barking solution is simply to acknowledge that your dog is trying to communicate, then you communicate in return.

Barking back at your dog is useless. Sure, this might be a quick fix to quiet the dog temporarily, but the dog barking will probably begin again shortly. Talking calmly to your dog will work wonders as you begin to teach your dog to stop barking so much. Do your best to get your dog’s attention and lead him away from the focus of his barking. If you need to lead your dog to a crate or another room until he settles down, that’s fine. When you get your dog’s attention, give him a treat for not barking. Dogs are always more interested in a treat than they are something strange that’s making them bark. But when you give your dog the treat, don’t him run back to whatever was making him bark. Teach your dog that if they come to you, or go their crate, or to the other room, they’re will be a reward.

Don’t get angry at your dog for barking. It doesn’t help at all. Actually, it makes things worse. Again, you must be calm and gentle, but firm enough to let your dog know that you’re in control and that he must calm down. Don’t get into a shouting match with your dog. You might with because you’re in charge, but what are you teaching your dog?

Teach your dog the word “quiet.” When your dog learns that “quiet” means to give you his attention and stop barking, you’ll be able to stop the barking on command.

Teach your dog when it is appropriate to bark. Remember, barking is your dog’s way of communicating. It’s normal for dog’s to bark. So you need to give your dog a way of getting that bark out once in a while. Teaching your dog the word “speak” can be a great way of letting your dog speak without fearing a reprimand. Actually, it will give you a chance to reward your dog for barking.

When your dog barks, go to him and find out why he’s barking. Maybe he’s lonely and just wants some attention. Maybe there’s a stranger nearby. Perhaps a strange noise is bothering him. Maybe he’s hungry or thirsty. He could be warning you of some type of problem or danger. In any case, go find out why your dog is trying to get your attention. Your dog is relying on you to be there for him. Don’t let him down.

If your dog is barking because he’s playing and having a great time, then you need to decide if that’s really a problem or not. Have you ever seen children playing? They tend to get louder and louder as they have more and more fun. That might be why your dog is barking, screaming, “This is fun!” But if the barking is inappropriate, then get his attention and correct the behavior.

It’s important that your dog gets plenty of exercise and releases that pent up energy. Take your dog for a walk or jog. Take him to a field to play fetch. Let him run around like crazy. Take your dog to a doggy day care with plenty of room to run. Wear him out. When he comes home to rest, he won’t have the energy to bark.

Most importantly, train yourself to stop barking. Consistency from you will be more effective to teach your dog to stop barking than any quick-fix method will ever be. When you are consistent, your dog will take notice, and the dog’s behavior will change to meet your consistent training pattern.

You can teach your dog to stop barking. Be consistent. Be firm. Be loving. Be understanding. Your dog will respond.

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