How to Train Your Dog to Be Silent

As a dog owner, you likely appreciate it when your dog barks to alert you to a suspicious stranger, notify you of its need to go out or let you know someone is at the door. But when your dog's barking gets out of control, this once useful trait becomes downright annoying.

You no longer need to put up with excessive barking. With a few simple steps and some patient dedication, you can train your dog to be silent on command.

Instructions

  1. Dog Training Steps

    • 1
      Tell your dog to bark.

      Command your dog to start barking. If your dog does not bark on cue, use a trigger such as a knocking noise.

    • 2

      Give the dog a silencing command, such as "No bark" or "Quiet."

    • 3
      Treats are a handy tool.

      Hold a dog treat in front of the dog's nose. Because the dog cannot sniff or lick at the treat and continue barking, it will most likely quiet down.

    • 4

      Praise the dog. After it has been silent for three to five seconds, reward it with the treat.

    • 5
      Repeat until you have a quiet pup.

      Repeat the process. Gradually lengthen the amount of time you require the dog to remain silent before praising and rewarding with a treat. If you wait too long to reward the dog, it may grow frustrated and bark for the treat. If this happens, silence the dog again and repeat.