How to Train Your Dog Not to Bark

One of the most frustrating things for dog owners is having a dog that is barking all the time. It is annoying for us and can be annoying for neighbors or those around us. The first step in fixing it is to figure out what is causing your dog to bark, is it an animal outside, they want attention, unfamiliar people? Once you figure this out you can start to address the issue.

General Training Tips

• Don’t yell at your dog because it will sound like you are barking with them
• Make sure you stay consistent with barking or it will confuse them
• Stay upbeat and positive

How to Train Your Dog Not to Bark at other Animals Outside

If your dog is barking because of an animal outside a simple way to resolve this is removing the stimulus by shutting the blinds or putting them inside. Putting them in another room is also an option.

How to Train Your Dog Not to Bark for Attention

If your dog is barking for attention a good way to dissuade them from doing it is by ignoring them. If they know that barking will get them attention then they will continue to bark for attention.

If you have traditionally responded to your dogs barking then this might take time but stick with it! Remember you need to stay consistent with your dog or it will just confuse them and make the training even harder.

How to Train Your Dog Not to Bark at Other People or Dogs

If your dog is barking at a stranger and or their dog but you don’t want them to try this. Have your friend and their dog start out of view or far enough away that your dog isn’t barking. Start feeding your dog treats as they come into view and walk closer. Once your friend and or their dog get out of view stop feeding them treats.

This is going to take time and repetition until it works so don’t be disappointed when they bark at your friend the next time they see them. This will take time.

Hiring a Professional Dog Trainer

If after all of this your dog is still misbehaving don’t hesitate to contact a trained professional. It may seem a bit expensive, which it is, but it will pay dividends in the long run. Dog trainers are able to get results much quicker most of the time than owners and have the training to find the problems and nip them in the bud. Also when sending your dog to a trainer they will likely address more than one thing and as such you will get a dog that not only barks less or not at all but is also more obedient.

When it comes to training your dog remember that the key is time and patience. Don’t expect your dog to make a complete 180 in a day. Just like humans, it takes time and repetition to break old habits.