How to Train a Dog Not to Bark When I Leave

If your dog barks and howls every time you leave the house, the cause can be one of several. He might be bored and seeking attention, or he might worried he cannot be near you to protect you. He might even be reacting this way because of how you interact when you are home. When attempting to reverse these habits, playing off a dog's own instincts and using positive training methods is best. Assume the role of a boss, give him a task and vary your routine to keep him off-balance. Above all, be patient, consistent and creative.

Things You'll Need

  • toys
  • treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Establish yourself as pack leader. If you have coddled your dog since he was a puppy--giving him praise, treats and hugs without him having to earn them--he will quickly decide he is the boss and bark every time you are not there to serve him. Let him know he is the pack follower by taking him for a proper walk every day, teaching him basic obedience commands and making him sit before he is fed, praised or petted. If your dog sees you as strong and capable, he will not feel compelled to call you back so he can protect you.

    • 2

      Give your dog a task while you're gone. If your dog has never learned to entertain himself because you've always been there to play with him, he will bark when you leave because he thinks that will get you to stay home and toss him a ball. Give him something to do while you are gone. Toys that dispense a nugget of dog food or a treat when he wrestles it into the correct position can keep him busy and distract him from your leaving. Rubber toys filled with peanut butter, canned dog food or dog biscuits will occupy as well as feed him.

    • 3

      Vary your morning routine. If you do the same thing every morning, your dog will learn the order of events and begin to anticipate your leaving. Instead, do things differently. Start for the door and then turn back, ignoring your dog during this time. Once he is not barking when you go to the door and return before leaving, try stepping out onto the porch and then coming back in. If he still does not bark, go outside, get in the car, and then return. Stretch this progression out over a number of days.

    • 4

      Make your leaving a non-event. Telling your dog goodbye and greeting him enthusiastically when you return make it clear to him that your leaving is significant. As you leave, distract your dog with his favorite toy. Without looking at him, wordlessly leave the house. When you get back, ignore him. Only notice him when he is calm, and eventually he will learn that this is the behavior you expect and demand.