6 Reasons Your Dog Won't Stop Barking
Hello and welcome back to the Lead & Collar Blog, where our goal is to provide high value education and resources for beginner dog owners.
We all understand barking is a natural way for dogs to communicate, but let's admit it - excessive barking is irritating to us (and our neighbours).
The good news is that there are effective ways to tackle this issue. Remember, prevention is better than a cure! By focusing on regular exercise, obedience training, and socialisation, we can create a strong foundation for behavioural balance in our dogs.
So we thought we would talk about 6 areas we have found to stop your dog from barking and bring peace back into your home.
Let’s get started!
#1: Confinement
Imagine being stuck in a tiny room for hours on end—boring and frustrating, right? Dogs feel the same way when they're confined inappropriately.
Avoid leaving your pup confined for extended periods, especially if you haven't exercised them beforehand. Establish a safe and comfortable space for them with toys where you can leave them after exercise. Additionally, gradually increase their alone time to help them adjust to being by themselves.
Another great option to assist with your dog's energy levels is by getting a dog walker or a pet-sitter if you're away for long hours. An exercised dog is less likely to bark excessively!
#2: Fear or Anxiety
Dogs may bark excessively when they're afraid or anxious about something, such as loud noises, new environments, or being left home alone.
Note: it's important to remember not to scold your dog for these kinds of behaviours linked to anxiety - it makes things worse.
To address this, create positive associations with these triggers. For instance, if your dog is barking due to separation issues, start with short departures (as short as 30 seconds if needed), and gradually increase the time. We'd also recommend avoiding excessive attention at least 15-30 mins before leaving or returning, so they don't associate it with excitement.
You could also try leaving your TV on and a favourite toy out. We wouldn't necessarily recommend this as a long-term option, but it can work to show the dog it's okay to be alone sometimes, and you can wean them off of this dependency gradually.
#3: Protection or Territory
Barking to protect their territory or you is a natural instinct for dogs.
While we appreciate their loyalty, continuous barking at every passerby can be a bit much. To tackle this, start obedience training to teach them when to bark and when to be quiet. Use commands like "quiet" and reward them when they obey. You can also prioritise socialising your dog from an early age, so they understand who poses no threat.
And a well-socialised dog is less likely to see everyone as a potential intruder.
#4: Environmental Noise
Loud and sudden noises like construction work, sirens, or even fireworks can set off a barking frenzy.
Try desensitising your dog to these sounds by playing recorded versions at a low volume and gradually increasing it over time. Pair this with treats and playtime to create a positive association.
This way, when the real noises occur, they won't be as alarming to your pup, and the barking should reduce.
#5: Boredom
Imagine having nothing to do all day; you'd probably find a way to entertain yourself too!
Dogs are no different. Barking can be their way of expressing boredom and seeking attention. Combat this by providing ample physical and mental stimulation. Long walks, interactive toys, and puzzle games can keep their minds engaged and their barking at bay.
A tired dog is a quiet dog!
#6: Attention
Ah, the classic attention seeker! Dogs sometimes bark persistently when they want some extra love or playtime.
It's essential to not reinforce this behaviour by giving in to their demands immediately. Instead, wait for them to calm down before offering attention. This shows them that they won't get what they want by barking, making them more likely to try other (and less noisy) strategies to get your attention.
Encourage desirable behaviour, and make sure to spend quality time with your furry friend regularly.
Conclusion:
Remember, stopping excessive barking takes patience, consistency, and understanding.
By focusing on prevention through exercise, obedience training, and socialisation, you can set your dog up for success. Address the root causes of barking, and don't forget to shower them with love and attention when they do behave well. With time and effort, you'll notice a significant reduction in barking, and both you and your furry companion will enjoy a more peaceful and harmonious life together!
As always, if you have any questions about the ins and outs of owning a dog, feel free to reach out to us via our contact page. We can’t wait to hear from you - Happy training!