Training Ideas for a Dog Barking During Family Time

Most dog owners don't mind the occasional bark, and they would like their dogs to bark as a warning when strangers approach. But some dogs may bark excessively at their owners or during family time. It may be the dog is just overexcited and needs to calm down. But if it happens repeatedly, you need to think about why the dog is barking and take steps to make it stop.

  1. Excitement Barking

    • Excitement barks are short, sharp and frequent. The dog is overexcited and wants to play. These dogs just need to slow down, or take a little time out. Switch to a different game or stop playing with the dog until it calms down.

    Attention Seeking Barking

    • The dog has learned that barking attracts attention from people. Owners often unwittingly reward this type of barking by giving the dog what it wants. The dog barks and the owner pays attention to the dog. Interrupt this behavior with an audio cue. Put a few pennies in an aluminum can and cover the top with tape and shake the can when the dog barks. You can also use an air horn or any other device that makes a loud, sudden noise. When the dog stops barking, wait a few seconds and reward the dog by praising it and giving it a toy or treat.

    Bordom Barking

    • If your dog has been left alone and is bored all day, it may overreact when you come home and start interacting with it. Give the dog plenty of things to do when you aren't available, such as toys for chewing. Consider getting another dog with a compatible personality, so they can play with one another while you are gone. Another option is to have someone stop by during the day to interact with the dog. A pet-sitter, relative or neighbor you trust could come over and play with the dog. When you get home and family time starts, ignore the dog when it starts barking. Only pay attention to the dog when the barking stops.

    Communal Barking

    • Dogs bark for communication, and sometimes when another dog starts barking, your dog will too. Barking is contagious, so if one dog starts to bark, you need to get control of the situation right away. Think of command to say when the dog start barking. Something like "Enough" or "Stop." Don't yell the command, or the dog might think you're joining in the barking fun. Say it in a calm, firm voice. Make sure everyone in the family understands and uses the same word. Consistency is key.