How to Stop a Big Dog From Barking

Barking is a dog's primary form of communication. It is not always appropriate in the human world, however, and the loud bark of your pet can be disruptive to both you and your neighbors. Still, barking is definitely a deterrent for unwanted intruders, and you want your dog to maintain that protective instinct in the right situation. More important, however, you want to train your dog to differentiate between inappropriate and appropriate reasons to bark.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog treats
  • Pieces of cooked chicken or beef
  • Dog crate or car harness
  • Can filled with coins or rocks
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use the word "quiet: to teach your god to stop its barking. When someone walks by your home or knocks on your door, allow your dog a couple of barks, which will serve to alert you to the potential intruder. After three barks however, stand in front of your dog, command it to a sit position and say the word "quiet." If the dog continues, repeat "quiet" and gently wrap both hands around your pet's muzzle to stop the barking. Give generous praise and treats when your dog stops to reinforce its stopping on command.

    • 2

      Distract your dog from barking by making a loud sound. Use a can filled with coins or rocks, or simply clap your hands. Use the "quiet" command along with the noise so that your dog learns the association. If your dog is particularly stubborn, stand in front of it and make the noise. This focuses your dog's attention on you and what you are saying. When your dog stops barking, immediately command it to a sitting position and reward it with praise and a treat.

    • 3

      Stop your dog from territorial barking by eliciting the help of a friend who does not fear large dogs. Have the friend first walk near the dog's perceived territory; and when your pet begins to react, say "quiet" offer it a piece of chicken or beef, or a favorite treat, to draw its attention away from the person. If your dog persists, put yourself between it and the other person. This is a clear communication in dog language that you are taking control of the situation and its barking is no longer necessary. Reward your pet for stopping. If it does not stop, attach its leash and lead the dog away from the situation,' then have it sit so it can still see the person and reward it for not barking. Slowly decrease the distance between your dog and your friend as it acclimates to the new behavior.

    • 4

      A dog that is reactive to people, other dogs or moving objects is likely to bark when in the car. This is dangerous for both you and your dog and it may be a better idea to avoid car rides until you have taught your dog solid "sit," "stay" and "quiet" commands. Keep your big dog under control when riding in the car, especially if your dog barks at people and other animals as you drive. Use a crate or car harness to maintain physical control over your dog. Work with it to stop barking by using treats, just as you would do when not in the car.