Instructions
Identify things that trigger your dog's barking. Dogs may bark when their owner is away, when the phone rings, when guests are over, when the doorbell rings or in a variety of other situations. Pinpoint what initiates the behavior and what about the situation is leading your dog to bark. For example, your dog may be frightened, hungry, lonely, excited or trying to protect you.
Solve any presenting problems. If your dog barks frequently because it is hungry or thirsty, provide it with ample food and water. If it needs to go outside often, consider installing a doggie door so it can relieve itself when necessary. If your dog barks out of boredom or loneliness, think about adopting another dog that can serve as a playmate and companion.
Make sure your dog is getting plenty of exercise. Many dogs, especially young ones, bark because they have large amounts of pent-up energy. Take your dog on frequent walks, or install a dog run or other means of exercise.
Do not yell "NO!" when your small dog begins to bark. Your dog will interpret this as you "barking" back, and is likely to bark more in response. Instead, choose another appropriate command, such as "bad" or "enough." Say these words firmly, but do not shout them. Be sure that your tone does not mimic the sound of your dog's barking.
Don't reward your dog's barking. While you may not do this intentionally, your actions might confuse your dog. For example, if you let your dog inside after it barks excessively at the back door, you have rewarded your dog's behavior. Do not hold your dog to quiet him, as this can also be seen as a reward. Consider other things you might do that your dog may interpret as a reward for barking.
Ignore your dog when you come home. While this may be difficult for many dog owners, it is likely to reduce the dog's barking while you are away. If you greet your dog enthusiastically when you return home, your dog will think that his barking brought you home. This will encourage him to bark more the next time you leave.
React calmly when the phone rings. You may need to practice this by calling your home phone from your cell phone and repeatedly ignoring the phone. When your dog sees that you do not react suddenly to the noise, he will follow suit.
Recruit friends and guests to help. Many small dogs bark excessively when guests are over because they see them as a threat and want to warn you about the danger. Try giving a few willing guests your dog's favorite toy or a handful of treats to give the dog throughout the visit. This might help your dog to see visitors as friends, not foes.
How to Stop a Young Small Breed Dog From Barking
Many small breed dogs are notorious for uncontrollable barking. Nothing disrupts an enjoyable visit with friends like a dog that barks incessantly at guests or goes crazy every time the phone rings. While some barking is normal, spending some extra time training your small dog to control its barking is worth your time and effort.