Its true, dogs bark to communicate. Some breeds bark more than others but all dogs bark sometimes. It is when a dog barks excessively and without good reason that everyone gets frustrated. We all appreciate communication from our dogs but nobody wants a dog that barks and barks for no good reason.
There are usually a few reasons why a dog will bark excessively. One of the main reasons why a dog barks is because of boredom. Dogs are pack animals, they love daily exercise, interaction with others and social stimulation. If they are spending most of their time being cooped up in the house or even outdoors in the same yard everyday they may need more fun. Try taking your dog for walks around the block or do some structured playtime every day. This may stop your dog from excessive barking if he barks out of boredom.
Dogs can also start barking excessively when they become nervous or frightened. When a dog is properly socialized they tend to be calm and more relaxed around various people and in different situations but if a dog is not used to these new things he may bark out of anxiety. Train your dog to be calmer by taking him to different places and around a variety of people. Give him a food reward while he is quiet and well behaved. This usually works well as the dog will start associating the pleasant treat with the new situation rather than nervousness.
Dogs will try to get your attention when they want something by barking. You want your dog to communicate with you but you do not want this type of barking to get out of control. If you respond to his barking by giving him what he wants he will continue to bark every time. Try to reinforce other communication behaviors by giving praise and treats.
Sometimes dogs bark from separation anxiety. They just don’t want you to leave them and they bark until you come home. This is disruptive to the neighbors and others so it is definitely something you need to avoid. It may be simpler to do this if you begin when your dog is still a pup and crate him before you leave. That way he is happily in his own space and he will not miss you nearly as much. Also do not make a big deal out of leaving but just quietly slip away. He will likely notice that you are gone but he won’t be so vocal about it.
Dogs bark to protect the people that they love. This is most often considered to be a good thing unless your dog is barking excessively to protect you from the mailman (or mail person!) every single day! In that case try to distract your dog with a treat or a game. You can also introduce your dog to the mailman. If he becomes friendly with the people who come by most often then he is less likely to bark excessively. If your dog barks to protect you though, you should be grateful as someday you may find yourself in a circumstance where you need that.
You can teach your dog not to bark excessively. A dog trainer can offer you some techniques but often more socialization and more playtimes do wonders to curb excessive barking. Your dog is barking for a reason though, so it is smart to figure out the reason why and adjust your training to that.
You will enjoy your dog more and others will also enjoy your dog more if he doesn’t bark excessively. Try to stop the negative behavior of excessive barking while your dog is a little puppy and when he is older you will know that if he is barking he has a good reason.
Important training guidelines for your favorite dog also discover what dog training video I used to train my dog in a few minutes a day.
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