Signs Your Dog Needs Obedience Training for Barking

Dogs bark for a variety of reasons. It is in their DNA to alert you of a stranger invading their space, to tell you they are bored or need to go outside. This harmless barking may be easily taken care of with a few simple training techniques. There are some types of barking that do require a certified professional trainer. All barking problems can be tempered with an owner who remains positive and consistent.

  1. Excited Barking

    • This type of barking happens most often in puppies. They become eager wanting to explore the world around them and it should diminish over time, as the dog matures. Increasing the dog's socialization by going to dog parks or a reputable doggy daycare would greatly decrease his enthusiasm over new things.

    Boredom Barking

    • In the case of boredom barking the dog needs some mental stimulation. Rotating toys on a daily basis will keep a dog from getting bored with the same old thing. Get him a food cube, a toy with holes that can be filled with kibble or treats. The food is not readily available and has to be rolled in a certain way to disperse a couple pieces. The dog can smell the food, but has to figure out how to get to it.

    Territorial Barking

    • Some owners prefer to have a bit of warning before hearing the knock on the door. It is genetic for certain breeds to be territorial, that was what they were designed for. For those who do not like the territorial watchdog, this type of barking can easily be resolved. Keep a "goody bag" outside the front door. When visitors come over, they can distribute the goodies to the dog, but only if the dog is sitting quietly, not barking. This increases positive association, strangers=quiet=treats. Alternatively, you can tell the dog "enough" after one bark and treat when the dog has stopped barking.

    Dominance Barking

    • A dominant dog has claimed the sofa and no one will tell him to move until he is good and ready. He might growl, bare his teeth, snap and bark if anyone disturbs his slumber. This is an example of a dog who believes he is the leader of the pack. Be careful around this dog, as the barking is indicative of a warning sign. The owner will need to find a certified professional trainer, one who specializes in dominant or aggressive dogs, before someone gets hurt.

    Fear based Barking

    • With his tail tucked and his head low, a dog will bark at what he fears. This fear-based barking should be treated slowly and with patience to diminish the fear. Creating positive associations with what he fears will eventually eliminate the barking issue. A certified professional trainer should be contacted to teach the owner positive reinforcement techniques.