Miniature schnauzers are small dogs with big attitudes. Alert and lively with a stubborn streak, they are descended from all-purpose German farm dogs. Barking to alert their owners of vermin or intruders was part of their job. Today̵7;s miniature schnauzers sometimes proudly display their heritage as watchdogs, barking loudly and often, to the frustration of owners and neighbors. Training not to bark excessively is easiest if you start when your dog is very young, before the behavior becomes entrenched. But a committed, loving owner can successfully train even a long-time, older barker to become a quieter, more obedient companion.
Things You'll Need
- Spray bottle filled with water
- Empty soda can with 10-15 pennies inside and the opening taped shut
- Favorite bite-sized treats
Instructions
Determine the cause of your dog̵7;s barking. Dogs bark for different reasons. Watch the dog closely to figure out what sets him off and why. Common triggers and possible reasons include protectiveness at seeing a jogger, cyclist or dog pass the house, excitement at the sound of the doorbell, anxiety or boredom at being left alone.
Teach your dog to lie down as an alternate, praiseworthy behavior. Whenever he barks, command him to lie down. Most dogs find it difficult to bark from a down position. If your dog obeys, praise him and give him a treat. Do this without fail, every time your dog barks. Arrange with a friend or family member to ring the doorbell to trigger the behavior, so that you can be on hand to correct it.
Create a swift, negative, yet painless, reinforcement for barkers that won̵7;t stop with the ̶0;Down̶1; command. The goal is to startle the dog into stopping without hurting or upsetting the dog. Good options are squirting him in the face with a water-filled spray bottle or loudly shaking a soda can with coins inside. Experiment to see which method works best with your dog, since some committed barkers won̵7;t hear the shaken can. Spray or shake as soon as your dog barks, and say, ̶0;Quiet!̶1; When he is quiet for just two seconds, praise, pat and give him a treat. You can gradually extend the time before giving the treat.
Repeat the reinforcement calmly every time the dog barks. Eventually, your dog will realize that something unpleasant happens whenever he barks, while treats and affection come to the quiet dog. Some dogs improve within hours. Others need weeks of consistent training.
Tire your schnauzer out every day with extra exercise, playtime and mental challenges. Many trainers, including Cesar Millan, the Dog Whisperer, maintain that excessive barking, like other behavior problems, is often due to ̶0;pent-up energy.̶1; Walk or jog with your dog. Take him to a dog run. Play catch or teach him new tricks. Tired dogs are happier, calmer dogs with less energy for barking.