The Best Method to Control Barking Dogs

Dogs bark to seek attention or express a need, to convey boredom or fear and to protect their territory. Some dogs bark out of excitement or a desire to play. This presents a problem for many dog owners who become frustrated by their dog's habits and behavior. Identifying the reason your dog barks is an important first step toward controlling the barking -- the cause determines the best method of control. Some dogs bark to alert their owners of a health problem or injury. Speak to your veterinarian about any concerns you have about your dog's barking habits.

Instructions

    • 1

      Remove your dog's motivation for barking. If your dog barks at people outside, for example, close your curtains. If your dog barks because it hears a chorus of other dogs howling and making noise, turn up the radio or invest in a white noise machine.

    • 2

      Desensitize your dog to stimuli that cause barking. If your dog barks at strangers, for example, arm a friend with treats and have her approach your dog. Your dog will start to associate the approach of a person with good things like treats, petting and praise.

    • 3

      Train your dog to speak and then to be quiet. Tell your dog to "speak" and create enough commotion to get the dog to bark. Speak the command "quiet" and soothe your dog back into silence using calm words, pets and hugs, if necessary. By training your dog to bark on command, the dog begins to understand that its vocalizations are only acceptable on your time. When you give the word, silence is expected.

    • 4

      Give your dog a safe spot to call its own. When dogs bark to protect their territory, they feel they are doing the right thing by stopping others from invading your home. When a person comes to the door, send your dog to its safe room or kennel, effectively asserting your place -- not the dog's -- as the protector of the household.

    • 5

      Distract your dog. Dogs cannot bark and sniff at the same time, as noted in ------. Ask your dog to perform a command, such as sit, and distract the dog with a treat held above his nose.

    • 6

      Ignore your dog. This is the ideal solution for barking that's brought on by being confined in a room or crate; it is not a solution for other types of barking. Ignore your confined dog's cries until it quiets down. Once it has done so, acknowledge your dog with a calm voice and let it out. Give the dog physical affection or a treat, if desired.

    • 7

      Wear your dog out. Dogs that bark out of frustration or boredom are fulfilling a need for activity. Walk your dog before leaving for work or school. Provide your dog with plenty of toys and opportunities for play.