Dogs can be lovely and ideal companions and pets, but sometimes dogs, even good ones, can bark constantly. There are many reasons why dogs bark, and the barking behavior of a problematic dog, apart from being annoying, is also illegal in many places. The first step to stopping your dog's excessive barking behavior is to find out why he is barking. Once you find the reason, you can figure out what action to take to stop it. Plus, by learning how to stop your dog's barking behavior, you can help keep your neighborhood calm and keep yourself out of trouble with the law.
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Method 1 of 5: Controlling Request Barking
Step 1. Stop giving your dog anything that triggers his barking
Also known as 'attention-seeking' barks, demand barks are a fairly common problem among dog owners. The first step to breaking this habit is to stop giving your dog what he wants every time he barks. Of course, this process will take some time, especially if your dog has already received a lot of praise for his barking.
- Try to distinguish between barks that are caused by the need to urinate (these barks are necessary) and barks that are caused by requests for small things, such as wanting to get on the couch or getting more attention.
- Don't give in to the barking, no matter how long your dog barks. By giving your dog what he wants when he barks, you're actually ruining your training progress.
Step 2. Ignore the barking
A request bark or an 'attention seeker' may be the only way your dog knows to behave. Even after you stop giving what triggers the barking, there's a good chance your dog will continue to exhibit the barking behavior. As long as he's still exhibiting this behavior, it's a good idea to ignore his barking instead of punishing him for his attention-seeking behavior.
- For your dog, you scolding him to stop barking can be seen as a form of attention. If you lose your temper and scold your dog, there's a good chance that your dog will bark even longer, because he's used to your response (even a negative response).
- If your dog starts barking all the time, don't scold him, or pet him, or even give him what he wants. You can't even look at him. The best strategy is to divert your attention to something else, such as reading a book or newspaper, until your dog has calmed down and is tired from barking a lot.
Step 3. Reward your dog for good behavior
When your dog finally stops barking continuously, it's important that you praise him and reward him for his ability to be calm and quiet. Over time, your dog will understand that being calm and submissive will get him better results than acting and barking loudly.
- Provide a reward every time your dog stops barking. Rewards should be given as soon as possible after your dog demonstrates the preferred behavior in order to teach your dog an effective lesson.
- Give him clear verbal praise every time your dog stops barking. Say, "Smart dog!" and give him a gift.
- While your dog understands that calm behavior can pay off and barking can actually lead to being ignored, you will need to gradually lengthen the duration of your dog's calm before he can get his reward. For example, after your dog has gone through the early stages of training and gets his reward as soon as he stops barking, you can extend the duration of his quiet for a few seconds each day, until you can finally extend the duration for one to two minutes before you give your dog the treat.
- For best results, vary the length of quiet time before your dog gets the reward. This way, your dog won't be able to predict when he'll be able to get his treat, and the wait will get him pounding. For example, after a few weeks of training, vary the length of quiet time between 20 seconds, one minute, and 30 or 40 seconds.
Step 4. Look for actions or behaviors that can replace barking
One of the best ways to train an animal not to exhibit bad behavior is to teach it alternative behaviors. This way, instead of feeling pressured and upset because you don't respond to his wishes, your dog will learn that if he wants something, he should ask someone else in a more acceptable way.
- While it may take some time, teaching alternative behaviors can be a great way to encourage your dog to exhibit better behavior. For example, instead of responding to your dog's bark trying to get you to play, teach your dog to bring his toys to you and put them on the floor if he wants to play with you.
- You can also prevent unpleasant barking behavior by reducing the likelihood that things will trigger the barking. For example, if your dog barks for help every time his toy ball rolls under the chair, try placing something under the chair to prevent the ball or toy from rolling into the chair.
Step 5. Continue this exercise
Don't give back or point out things that could trigger her to bark and call for attention. Continue your practice until all problems with request or attention-seeking barking have been resolved. Eventually, your dog will understand that he has to wait patiently if he wants to play, eat, or receive a pet.
Method 2 of 5: Coping With Separation Anxiety
Step 1. Recognize separation anxiety disorder in dogs
Separation anxiety can take many forms or signs in dogs, but the most common signs are breaking the house and constant barking. These behaviors generally occur when the dog owner is at work or away, and if the pet dog does not have a tendency to be destructive, some owners are not even aware that their pet dog is experiencing separation anxiety. Common signs your dog is experiencing separation anxiety include:
- Follows you from room to room, even if you're only gone for a short time.
- Shaking, gasping for air, or squealing as you prepare to leave for the day.
- Urinate or defecate in the house when you are not at home.
- Chewing things when you're not at home
- Scratching or 'digging' floors, walls, or doors when left alone.
- There are complaints from neighbors regarding annoying barking or howling when your dog is left alone at home.
Step 2. Countercondition your dog
Counterconditioning is a common grooming method for dogs that generally includes exercises to associate fears with rewards. In dealing with separation anxiety, dogs experiencing anxiety are actually afraid of being left behind, not afraid of someone or something. When counterconditioning, you need to train your dog to associate situations when he needs to be left alone with things he enjoys (for example, treats).
- Whenever you leave the house, try giving your dog a toy that can be filled with food. Toys with free space that can be filled with treats, spray cheese, or low-fat nut butter can keep your dog calm for at least 20 to 30 minutes. It was enough time for him to forget that he was being left alone at home.
- When you're at home, hide your dog's toys so your dog can get used to having them only when you're not home.
- Keep in mind that counterconditioning methods usually work effectively on mild anxiety. While a toy that can be filled with food will certainly be a treat for your dog, regardless of his level of anxiety, you will need to take a stronger approach if your dog is experiencing moderate or high levels of anxiety.
Step 3. Get your dog used to or unaffected by being alone
If your dog has moderate or high levels of separation anxiety, it's likely that the anxiety won't be relieved in one day. A good way to get your dog used to being alone is to gradually get used to being alone in the house and emphasize that while you're getting ready, it doesn't necessarily mean that you're going to leave your dog completely. This process is slow and can take weeks of practice and consistency, but the results of this exercise can effectively affect it in the long run.
- Cope with pre-travel anxiety by showing your dog signs you're getting ready to leave, such as putting on a coat or picking up and carrying your keys. Try doing these things at different times of the day without actually leaving the house.
- Teach your dog to be more comfortable being alone by getting him used to being out of sight. This means that you need to tell your dog to sit or lie down quietly, then you leave the room or move away until your dog can't see you.
- Once your dog is comfortable and used to not seeing you, try closing the room door to block access to you. After that, gradually extend the duration of your 'go' (or at least the time you hide behind the door).
- Start the 'hiding' process by using doors that are not 'risky', such as bathroom doors or bedroom doors. Don't try to train him right away using the front door, so your dog won't freak out.
- After a few weeks, do the exercise using the exit (front door). However, it's a good idea to use an alternative exit (if possible) other than the one you use to go to work. For example, do the exercise using the back door instead of using the front door or the door leading to the garage.
- While extending your hiding time, try incorporating counterconditioning methods with toys to keep your dog's attention distracted. Try giving the toy away after you've been hiding behind a door or outside for 10 to 20 seconds.
Step 4. Be patient
In order for your dog to feel comfortable in your absence for long periods of time, of course, you will need a lot of training. Most anxiety-induced unpleasant behavior in dogs will appear within the first 40 minutes after you leave, and your dog will need a lot of practice before he can get past 40 minutes without displaying the unpleasant behavior.
- Extend your 'hide' time by just a few seconds in each training session. If your hiding or 'disappearing' time is extended to more than a few seconds (e.g. from 10 seconds to 1 minute), your dog may become irritated and driven to panic reactions.
- Once your dog is comfortable being left alone for more than 90 minutes, there's a good chance he can be left alone for 4 to 8 hours. However, at an initial level of comfort, it's a good idea to test it by first leaving it for 4 hours, and not leaving it on all day (if possible).
- If you consistently provide exercise and practice several times a day on weekends and, at least, twice a day on weekdays (eg before going to work and in the afternoon), you can make your dog comfortable and calm when left alone for long periods of time. a long time (approximately within 1 month). However, keep in mind that every dog is different, and your dog may need longer training periods and more training sessions to follow each day.
- Be patient, and remember that your dog behaves this way because he loves you and is afraid that you will leave him.
Step 5. Consider alternative options for caring for your dog
If your dog really won't calm down despite the exercise, or if your neighbor (or apartment manager) is showing disapproval of your dog's need for exercise, you may want to consider alternative options for grooming your dog.
- Find out if you are allowed to bring your dog to work (depending on where you work). While it may not be ideal, many companies or offices allow their employees to bring dogs, especially if you explain the problem to your boss.
- Ask a friend or family member to help take care of your dog while you are away from work. Most dogs only experience separation anxiety when they are truly left alone. In other words, having someone who can temporarily take care of your dog is usually quite helpful.
- Provide cage training. The success of this exercise varies and varies from dog to dog. Some dogs are afraid of being left alone in the crate, and others think the crate is a safe place, so the dogs think that someone will come home and take them out of the crate.
- Seek help from a certified professional dog trainer if all the methods you have tried are not working. A professional dog trainer can determine the best way to help resolve the problem with your dog. Look online for information on professional dog trainers in your city, or you can ask your veterinarian for a recommendation for a professional dog trainer.
Method 3 of 5: Stopping Alert Barking
Step 1. Recognize alert barks in dogs
Alert barking is a barking pattern directed at people who are perceived as intruders or strangers. While barking at an actual intruder is useful and can save someone's life, alert barking aimed at the wrong person such as a mail deliveryman, package delivery person, or even a neighbor just passing through your house can be annoying and problematic.
- Alert barking is not always triggered by visual indications. Some dogs emit alert barks just by the sound of a passing car engine or the sound of pedestrians.
- Alert barks are usually accompanied by small attacks or pouncing movements toward the perceived stranger, about 2.5 to 5 centimeters forward with each bark.
Step 2. Teach your dog the command to remain calm
The best way to stop alert barking is to teach your dog the command to remain calm. As with other exercises, this teaching process may take some time, and requires patience and consistency. However, if you are willing to put in the time and effort, your dog (even a dog that is usually good at one particular area) can learn to behave better.
- When your dog begins to emit alert barks, show him his favorite treat after three or four barks. The snack can grab his attention, distract him from the person he perceives as a stranger.
- Wait for him to stop barking. Be patient and keep showing (and holding up) the treats.
- Once your dog has stopped barking, say "Shut up" in a calm, firm tone of voice, then give the treat.
- Repeat the process until your dog is able to associate the "Silence" command with calm. Once your dog has done this 10 or more times, you can start giving the quiet command without showing him the treat. If he manages to follow your orders, give him a treat or a treat. If not, you'll still need to show the treats in a few practice sessions.
- Eventually, your dog will be able to calm down after listening to the command, without the need for treats. However, once you've reached this stage, you should still give him praise if he manages to stop barking.
Step 3. Apply the silent command
Once your dog has learned the command to be quiet through the training sessions, you need to apply it in real life. You can have your friend slam the car door in front of yours, open the post box, or approach your front door to test if your dog is able to understand the command.
- Provide treats for your dog whenever your friend approaches the front door. Even if you're past the snacking stage during regular practice, you can still use snacks for real workouts that involve your friend as a complete stranger.
- When you ask your friend to walk up to your front door (pretending to be the mailman), it's important to emphasize that your friend shouldn't leave the front porch until your dog has stopped barking. If he leaves while your dog is still barking, your dog will think it was his barking that drove your friend away.
Method 4 of 5: Preventing Compulsive Barking or Boredom
Step 1. Identify the type of compulsive barking or barking caused by boredom
If your dog barks all the time for no reason, or tends to bark when left alone (in the yard, for example), he's probably barking because he's bored. A dog that barks constantly because of being abandoned may have separation anxiety, but there are usually other symptoms as well, such as destructive behavior, poor bowel habits, and the habit of following you around when you're in the house. The following are signs of compulsive barking behavior:
- Excessive barking in a repetitive pattern.
- Walking back and forth or running, usually done while barking or before/after barking.
- Barking when left alone (without showing signs of separation anxiety).
- It barks every time you stop paying attention to it.
Step 2. Get your dog to get lots of exercise and activity
Practice and play are the best ways to deal with compulsive or bored barking. Taking your dog for a walk is of course an important part of your dog's activities (even if it's limited to walking your yard). However, just taking a walk is not enough. Try having your dog run back and forth from person to person for 10 to 20 minutes, chasing a ball or a toy, or just jogging with you before you leave for work.
- Strenuous exercise and activity for (at least) 20 minutes daily is essential for maintaining your dog's physical and mental health. In addition, the exercises and activities provided can help the emergence of problem behaviors such as compulsive barking.
- You should also make time each day to play with your dog. Try playing hide and seek with your dog, or simply throwing a ball and telling him to chase or pick it up.
Step 3. Teach your dog interesting tricks
Learning and practicing tricks is a great way to keep boredom away from your dog and prevent compulsive behavior from occurring. Trick training requires focus, attention, and memory, so your dog will be physically and mentally busy and more focused on the tricks being taught.
Once your dog has learned a few tricks, encourage him to show them the tricks he has learned. As well as helping him remember the tricks he's learned, this appearance will also help your dog to stay focused and less likely to get bored
Step 4. Provide things to distract your dog from boredom
In addition to exercise and activities, you can also provide your dog with items to distract your dog from boredom to prevent problem behaviors such as compulsive barking. You can use toys that can be filled with peanut butter, or you can use treats that are placed in various places in the room. You can also turn on the radio or television so that their attention is distracted by the sound of the radio or television.
Method 5 of 5: Finding Ways to Reduce the Frequency of Barking
Step 1. Meet your dog's needs
If your dog is hungry or left outside every day, all day, there is a good chance he will bark. His need for food and comfort cannot be regulated or controlled through practice or behavioral techniques. Therefore, make sure your dog has fresh and clean water to drink at all times, two to three meals of nutritious food each day, and access to the house.
Step 2. Treat your dog's health problems
Sometimes barking is a sign that your dog is injured or sick. If you think your dog has a health problem or injury, you should immediately see a veterinarian.
Step 3. Use the exercise method
Teaching the command to be quiet is a great practice technique to reduce the frequency of barking in your dog. This exercise is useful for all kinds of problems with dog barking, although it may be the only option for dealing with certain problematic behaviors, such as alert barking caused by a foreign object entering your dog's territory.
- Whenever your dog starts barking excessively, offer him his favorite treat to distract him from objects or people who might be mistaken for intruders or strangers.
- Once your dog has stopped barking, say the command “Shut up” and give him a treat.
- Gradually, extend the duration of your dog's silence before he finally gets his treat. Eventually, your dog will shut up when you give him a quiet command, without needing to show him his favorite treat.
Step 4. Get your dog lots of exercise and activity
Exercise and activity are good ways to deal with problem behaviors, including excessive barking. Regardless of the cause of your dog's barking, whether it's anxiety, threat to his territory, or boredom, exercises such as fun sports can reduce the frequency and intensity of his barking.
There are many exercises and activities you can do with your dog, depending on your dog's age and physical abilities. For older dogs, walking long distances can be a great activity. As for young dogs, you can take them jogging, play catch or catch, play tug of war, or play other interactive games
Step 5. Remove or block anything distracting your dog from his sight
If your dog barks every time he sees or hears something outside your home, the simplest solution is to block his access to see or hear what provokes his attention. If he's standing at the window and starts barking, try putting up curtains or blinds so he can't see people or other animals passing in front of your house. If sounds outside your home are making him nervous, try turning on the radio all day to distract him and make your room more soundproof so that outside noise can't be heard into the house.
Step 6. Consult this problem with a specialist
There are many specialist doctors who specialize in treating different breeds of dogs, each with its own specialty. Regardless of the specialist doctor you use, you should always check the expertise of the specialist and look for recommendations or reviews on the doctor on the internet. If you can't find a specialist to help with your problem, ask your veterinarian for a recommendation to find a specialist who can help with your dog's problem.
- Often, many dog trainers already have a trainer certificate. However, keep in mind that not all dog trainers are certified. In addition, dog trainers also go by other names, such as animal behavior/attitude counselor, animal therapist, and animal psychologist.
- Certified professional dog trainers follow a certification process held by independent organizations. To be certified, trainers must complete an integrated training program, pass a standardized exam, and submit a letter of recommendation.
- Behaviorists usually hold several degrees, but basically animal behaviorists must hold a master's or doctorate degree in animal behavior. In the United States, animal behaviorists with a doctorate are generally referred to as certified applied animal behaviorists or CAABs, while animal behaviorists with master's degrees are referred to as associate certified applied animal behaviorists or ACAAB.
Step 7. Use a bark suppressant on the dog
Products designed to prevent dogs from barking, such as special collars (known as anti-bark collars), can be uncomfortable for dogs, and should only be used as a last resort if all your efforts are not working. Some people forbid the use of these products because they are considered a tool of punishment. Exercise can produce better results than the use of punitive devices, and can provide the best long-term solution for problem behaviors in dogs. However, if the given training still doesn't work and your apartment manager or neighbor has sued you (even the matter has even gone to the police), you may need to use the product to prevent your dog from barking again.
- Lemongrass collars can give off a slight citronella scent every time your dog barks. The use of lemongrass leashes on dogs is considered to be, at least, as effective as the use of e-leashes, and does not result in serious injury or excessive discomfort to the dog.
- Ultrasonic collars can produce ultrasonic sounds that only dogs can hear. Even if they don't cause serious injury, they can make your dog feel uncomfortable.
- Like lemongrass necklaces and ultrasonic necklaces, shock necklaces have the same function. However, these collars produce a short electric shock that hits your dog's neck every time your dog starts barking excessively. Necklaces of this type usually have different settings related to the intensity of the electric shock generated. If you use a collar of this type, it's a good idea to use the lowest shock intensity to prevent serious injury to your dog. Again, the use of products like this should only be done if all the ways that have been done do not produce results.
