How to Deal With Excessive Dog Barking

Dogs use barking as a way to express themselves and their needs. According to Sherry Woodard of the Best Friends Animal Society, dogs bark for a variety of different reasons including when they're excited, scared, bored or territorial. Correcting the dog's behavior is key in dealing with excessive dog barking.

Things You'll Need

  • Veterinarian
  • Fence/shrubbery
  • Dog toys/treats
  • Professional dog trainer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take the dog to a veterinarian for an exam to rule out any physical or medical reasons why the dog may be barking excessively.

    • 2

      Keep the dog in an area where you or your family members are easily visible. Dogs are naturally social and need human interaction on a regular basis to thrive.

    • 3

      Control the dog's environment. Strangers, moving vehicles and other animals each impact a dog's environment and can cause excessive barking. Block the dog's view of off-property distractions by placing a fence or shrubbery around your property or by simply closing your window drapes or mini-blinds if the dog is confined to the house. Or, confine the dog to a safe, quiet area in your home.

    • 4

      Verbally reprimand the dog with a strict "No" command every time it barks. According to the City of Lockhart Department of Animal Services, using a sharp verbal "No" command is often enough to quiet the animal.

    • 5

      Ignore the dog's barking if verbal commands don't work, but promptly reward it with a toy or treat after its barking stops. According to the Best Friends Animal Society, ignoring the dog, but rewarding it once it has stopped barking will help teach the dog that being quiet has its rewards.

    • 6

      Take the dog to a professional trainer if excessive barking continues. According to the Champaign County Humane Society, barking is one of the most difficult canine behaviors to modify and sometimes requires the help of a professional dog trainer.