Prevent Your Dog From Barking Too Much
Dogs bark for communication purposes. Some breeds bark more than others but all dogs bark at times. It is when a dog barks excessively and without what seems to be a good reason that everyone gets annoyed. We all want communication from our dogs but nobody wants a dog that barks and barks for no apparent reason.
Dogs will bark excessively for a few reasons. If your dog spends all day long in the house or in the same yard he may be barking excessively because he is bored. Dogs enjoy exercise and interacting with people. Dogs also love social stimulation, as they are pack animals. If your dog is barking from boredom try going on more walks or incorporating more playtimes throughout the day
Dogs may also be barking excessively when they become nervous or scared. When a dog is appropriately socialized they will be calm and more relaxed around different people and in different situations but if a dog is not familiar with these new things he may bark out of anxiety. Train your dog to be calmer by taking him to various places and around different people. Give him a food reward while he is quiet and well behaved. This usually works well as the dog will start associating the pleasing treat with the new situation rather than nervousness.
Dogs will bark to get your attention and this is one way to communicate. However, if you respond to barking every time you are just teaching your dog to bark more. Attempt to get him to communicate in other ways and reinforce that behavior with praise and treats. He can rub on your leg if he wants to go outside just as easy as he can bark at you!
Sometimes your dog will bark excessively because you have left home and you are not with him. This barking from separation anxiety is disruptive to the neighbors and others so it is smart to try to stop it. Start when he is a puppy and crate him when you leave so he can learn to be content in his own space. Also never make a big deal out of leaving home but rather just sneak away quietly. He may never know that you are gone and if he does he will not be so vocal about it.
Dogs also bark to offer the people they love protection. This is a good thing, unless it happens every single day when the mailman (or mail person!) drops off the mail. In that case you should spend some time training and socializing your dog. Introduce your dog to the mailman; if you are there he should not be feeling threatened. Give him treats and praise for good behavior. Hopefully, he will get to know the mailman and not bark every single day. Do not try to alleviate the barking in the case of all people though as there may come a situation when you will be grateful for your dog’s protective bark.
You can find dog training videos that can give you some tips and techniques to stop excessive barking but sometimes just more socialization and more playtimes will help stop the excessive barking. The one thing you should consider though is that your dog is often barking for a reason and you should find out what that reason is. Then you can deal with the barking.
If your dog only barks for appropriate communication you and other people will enjoy your dog more. Start training your dog not to bark excessively while he is still a puppy and by the time he is grown up you will know that if he is barking it is for a good reason.
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