How to Train a Dog Not to Growl When Someone Comes to the Door

A dog that growls at visitors who come to the door has not been properly socialized, and needs socialization training. A dog will often growl at an unfamiliar person in its home because the dog feels that the visitor is invading its territory. Dogs growl at visitors to show that they feel threatened, fearful, dominant or aggressive. Owners should expose their dogs to other people in various calm, non-threatening situations so dogs can become accustomed to people. Socialization training takes time, but socialized dogs are friendly and want to please people, so they are more manageable.

Things You'll Need

  • Muzzle
  • Crate
  • Assistant
  • Dog treats
  • Collar
  • Leash
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fasten the muzzle around your dog's snout so that your dog cannot bite if it feels aggressive. Place your dog in the crate in a calm, quiet room. Ask your assistant to come into the room and have a conversation, so your dog can observe her without interacting. Feed your dog a treat if it does not growl. Invite your assistant to give your dog a treat so your dog will associate unfamiliar people with rewards.

    • 2

      Ask your assistant to leave the room while you take your dog out of the crate. Put the collar and leash on your dog, and hold the leash firmly. Invite your assistant into the room and have her and the dog sit quietly. If the dog growls, scold it in a calm, firm voice. Ask your assistant to pet the dog or give it a treat if it is calm and does not growl. Repeat this procedure until your dog learns to interact positively with your assistant.

    • 3

      Walk your dog around the neighborhood to expose it to different people, sounds, sights and experiences. Behave calmly and confidently so your dog will not feel fearful. Take your dog to pet stores, dog parks and other areas that will expose the animal to new situations and people. Reward your dog with a treat each time it does not growl at an unfamiliar person. Repeat these outings frequently so your dog can get used to having new experiences.

    • 4

      Take your dog home and have your assistant knock on the door. Say "No!" firmly to your dog if it growls when it hears your assistant knock on the door. Praise your dog if it does not growl, and give it a treat. Repeat this process with your assistant so that your dog will get in the habit of not growling when your assistant knocks on the door. Continue to reward your dog for good behavior whenever visitors come to your home.