Is There a Way to Train Dogs in a Kennel Not to Bark at People?

A dog that barks whenever someone passes its kennel can be a real nuisance. Many owners struggle with dogs' inclination to bark when kenneled. Barking is a standard way dogs warn other dogs. However, as the alpha in a home's "pack," the owner can take steps to control nuisance barking and, as a result, have a quieter, friendlier neighborhood.

  1. Acclimating the Dog

    • Some kenneled dogs barks at every passing car, neighborhood cat and stranger at the door. These dogs believe that their home territory is being threatened. They need to understand that you are the pack leader, and that you have everything under control.

      To do so, expose your dog to new situations and new people slowly, and in a controlled situation. This could be as simple as inviting someone over or taking a walk in the park. If your dog barks, issue the "quiet" command calmly and directly. If it continues, command your dog to sit and stay. Dogs feel more comfortable when you knows you're in control. This approach will also work for dogs that bark out of fear at new things and people.

    Establishing Barking Behaviors

    • Many owners find that by teaching their dogs to bark on command, they can teach them to stop barking on command, too. Use the "speak" command to teach barking, and reward your pet when the order is obeyed. Most obedience courses will help you teach "speak." You can also incite barking by holding a treat out of the way, and saying the command in an excited tone. Most dogs will eventually bark if you don't eventually hand over the treat. Remember to praise your dog when he barks on command.

    Transferring the Skill to "Quiet"

    • Use the "quiet" or "enough" commands (depending on how you've trained your dog) to tell him to stop. Once again, reward with a treat or affection to reinforce the action. This method of training is just like teaching your dog to sit or heel. Once your pet gets used to being quiet on command, he'll respond even when you don't use the "speak" command. That way, you can easily tell a dog to be quiet in his kennel.