One of the main issues dog owners complain about is continuous barking. Although dogs make great pets, they can sometimes annoy you with this sound. There are several approaches to eliminating the problem. Finding the right anti-barking techniques can be a challenge, but it can be accomplished.
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Feel
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Sometimes a dog may hear something a human cannot with his sensitive ears, or you may know exactly what is causing the barking. A great method to stop the barking is by using a spray bottle filled with water. Pay close attention to what triggers the barking. Fill a clean water bottle with cold water and spritz the dog in the face each time he starts to bark. After a few sprays, the dog should realize what happens when he barks. Always remember to give praise once the barking stops. It is also important to praise the dog for barking at the right time. For example, if you allow your dog to bark when strangers knock at your door, praise him for doing so. Before long your dog will learn what to bark at, and what not to.
Hear
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Another solution is a device called Cesar Millan. This is a great way to stop those irritating barks without any special type of collar or without being near your dog at all times. This special unit gives off a harmless ultrasonic tone. It will scare the dog and cause her to be quiet. The dog will quickly learn that the bark is causing the sound and will stop barking. This device only works if the dog is within 25 feet of the unit.
Smell
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If your pet weighs more than 10 pounds, the citronella collar may be an option. Many dogs do not like the smell of citronella and will do anything to avoid it. Once the collar is attached to your pet's neck and she begins to bark, the collar will automatically release citronella scent under her nose. This option works well for a while, but if your dog doesn't catch on quick and stop the barking, she may get used to the citronella smell and start barking again.
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