How to Stop your Dog Barking

A barking dog — some of us don’t mind so much, but to others it’s a serious annoyance. But let’s face it, however much we don’t mind a bit of barking, it can become troublesome if it goes on for too long or is too frequent.

If you feel you need to do something about your dog’s barking, here’s how. First you need to establish why your dog barks.

### Why Does Your Dog Bark?

First things first, let’s understand why your dog barks. Dogs use barking as their primary means of communication, just like we use words. Some breeds are more vocal than others (I’m looking at you, Beagles, Jack Russells!). If you’re thinking of getting a dog, it’s vital to check out the breed and what they are bred to do.

Knowing what your dog is bred to do can give you a clue about their barking habits. For some dogs, barking is how they communicate when doing their work.

Check out https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/search/breeds-a-to-z/ to check out all the different dog breeds.

Here are some common reasons why dogs bark:

– **Warning Bark**: They’ve heard an unfamiliar noise and is letting you know.

– **Attention-Seeking**: Barking because it gets them what they want—your attention.

– **Fear**: When they’re scared and don’t know what else to do.

– **Excitement**: They’re just too happy or stimulated to stay quiet.

– **Boredom**: They have nothing better to do.

Some of these barks are useful, but they need to be controlled. Maybe you got a dog for security purposes, but you still want some peace and quiet.

### Good Training and Control

Training is key. A well-trained dog knows their boundaries and understands that you mean what you say. This makes it easier to manage their barking. Basics like recall, sit, and stay, are essential. Start with these and build up from there.

### Warning Barks

If you want your dog to alert you when strangers are near, but stop when asked, teach a ‘quiet’ command. Clicker training works wonders here. Start with a treat on the nose when they bark, then give the ‘quiet’ command and reward them when they stop. Gradually increase the time between the command and the reward.

When someone comes to your home, let your dog bark a bit, then thank them and give the ‘quiet’ command. After that, send them to their bed so you can handle the visitor. Practice by getting someone to ring the bell or knock on the door. Your dog will soon learn this as a good habit of behaviour.

### Fear Barks

If your dog barks out of fear, it’s crucial to build their confidence. Don’t force them to face their fears without the right support. Start training at a distance where they feel safe enough to focus on you. Gradually bring them closer, using food as a reward for not barking, as their confidence grows. Professional help can make a huge difference here.

Being left alone is often when a dog barks. This may be fear or attention.

Check out the Separation Anxiety page if you need help with this.

### Attention/Excitement Barks

This can be the most frustrating type of barking. Often, we unintentionally encourage it by giving attention when the dog barks. Consistency is key. When your dog barks for attention, give a negative consequence like putting them in their crate or in another room. Reward them when they are quiet. It takes time and patience, but it’s worth it.

Ultimately, teach your dog what to do, rather than constantly correcting the wrong behaviour. If your dog barks a lot when you are sat down, before you sit down, give your dog something to do, like a kong or safe chew. Teach your dog the right behaviour.

Don’t get your dog over excited when you come home. Keep it calm and casual. Give them a good routine for what happens when you come home of when visitors arrive.

### Boredom Barks

This is the easiest to fix. Dogs need mental stimulation. Teaching new activities and using games where they need to use their nose and their brain, can tire them out more than a walk in the park. 10-15 minutes of mental exercise can be worth an hour of physical exercise. Need some ideas? Check out our nosework page for up-coming events.

If your dog likes digging, make them a dig box and hide their favourite toys or food in it.

### Summary

Start with good, basic training. Don’t encourage barking by giving attention when it’s not wanted. Teach your dog good routine and habits so they know what’s expected of them.

Build your dog’s confidence if they are scared, and teach them what to do instead of just barking. If you need more help, consider one-on-one training sessions where we can guide you how to stop the barking and give you some great new activities you can teach your dog.

You must be persistent, consistent and insistent in your training, at all times. The 3 Tents of Dog Training!

If you feel it’s separation anxiety, check out this page on our website, and seek the relevant support if needed.

Remember, a well-trained dog is a happy dog, and a happy dog means a happy owner. If your dog is bored, engage in activities with them—both you and your dog will benefit.

Happy training!