How to Train Your Dog Not to Bark at Visitors

Your dog barks because he instinctively feels he is protecting his territory and his pack (you included). Barking is a good thing; it means your dog views himself as a vital member of your family and he's looking out for you. Visitors are people outside the pack, and he's letting you know that someone strange is trying to disturb the natural order of the pack. Some dogs are persistent barkers, though, and don't stop at one or two barks. This can be unsettling for the visitor and annoying to you. Ideally, your dog would let you know someone's at the door and then greet them gently and go somewhere else. This can be achieved with a little practice, some consistent training, and some treats as incentive.

Things You'll Need

Treats

Instructions

- 1
  Have a treat in your hand when you go to answer the door for a visitor. Let the dog bark a few times. Praise him for barking with a "Good boy" or something similar.
- 2
  Say, "Quiet," and show her the treat. As soon as she's quiet, give her the treat and praise her.
- 3
  Say, "Good boy," if he barks again and then say "Quiet." When he's quiet, give him the treat and praise him.
- 4
  Practice by giving her a few seconds after you say "Quiet" before giving her a treat. Gradually let more moments of quiet go by before giving her the treat.
- 5
  Leave a box of treats by the door. When visitors come in, have them toss a treat to the dog. He'll begin to associate the door opening with treat time.