Humane society statistics show that dogs that are considered "outside dogs" tend to suffer far more stress than inside dogs because they feel separated and isolated from their "pack" (your family). This often leads to serious barking problems, particularly at night when your dog's instincts are telling him to get into his den with his pack mates. While the best solution is to bring your dog indoors, sometimes this is not an option. You can stop problem barking, but it will require some regular time and effort on your part.
Things You'll Need
- Doghouse
- Dog toys
- Dog comfort item
- Radio
- Fenced area
Instructions
Give your dog a den. This should be a safe, secure and weatherproof doghouse. It should be comfortable inside, and you can make your dog feel as if you are nearby by placing a comfort item such as one of your old, worn, unwashed shirts or pants, in the house along with any other padding items.
Make sure that your dog is getting plenty of exercise. During the day, your dog may not bark because he has things to watch and interact with. However, if he is not tired at night, he will get bored and start barking. Concentrated, hard play time like fetch, jogging or traditional chase right before bed will help your dog sleep and get him into the habit of going to bed after his evening romp.
Provide entertainment while you are away. When you go to bed at night, your outside dog feels as if you have left. She may be bored or lonely. Dog toys can provide distraction for her if she cannot sleep and may prevent barking.
Give your dog some artificial company. Some animals respond well to a padded or otherwise protected "white noise" maker like a radio in or near their kennel. It makes them feel less alone. However, make sure that there are no cords for your pet to chew or he could get seriously hurt.
Avoid chaining or tying your dog. This is the fastest way to create a serious problem barker with aggression problems and all sorts of stresses and phobias that lead to chronic and even pathological barking.
Teach your dog the "quiet" command. During the day or in the evening, trigger barking using a doorbell or other stimuli. When the dog barks, hold a treat in front of her nose and say "quiet." When she stops barking to sniff the treat, give it to her and praise her lavishly. Repeat the process until the dog can wait a long time for the treat and eventually will stop barking on command without the incentive of a treat at all. You can use the command at night to help your dog learn not to bark.