How to Get Your Dog to Stop Barking When Walking Him

Barking is one of the ways that dogs communicate, and it is natural for them to bark, even though it can be annoying sometimes. When you are walking your dog, however, barking can startle passersby and create a nuisance. There are a few things you can do, including training your dog, to get him to stop barking so much when you take him on a walk. In extreme cases, you might have to seek professional help.

Instructions

    • 1

      Use a look, a physical correction such as tapping his nose, or a sound to signal to your dog that he should stop barking. Stop walking while doing this and move on only after the dog has stopped barking. Keep doing this each time he barks.

    • 2

      Teach your dog the quiet command at home, and then use it if he starts barking on your walks. To teach this command, encourage your dog to bark -- you could ring your doorbell to set him off. Then hold a treat over your dog's nose while you say "quiet." When he stops barking, praise him and let him have the treat. Repeat this, leaving a longer amount of time for the dog to be quiet before you give him the treat.

    • 3

      Show your dog that you are the boss. Often, dogs bark excessively when they believe they are the leader of the pack or believe they are the boss of you. If your dog is under the impression that he is in charge, you can change his perception by walking in front of him. If he then pulls on his leash, stop and wait until he looks at you. Keep this up, and the dog will realize that you control the walk, and the barking should stop.

    • 4

      Put a citronella collar on your dog when you go for a walk. The collar, sold in pet stores, works by releasing a bitter scent that the dog dislikes and therefore forces him to be quiet. Another product you can buy is a sound collar, which emits a loud noise when the dog barks.

    • 5

      Get professional assistance if none of these methods work. Sometimes a dog may have serious behavior issues that can cause incessant barking on walks, and these must be dealt with by a professional.