Bark control tips/Learn about barking

Barking 101

Our dogs bark as a natural part of their communication system. It’s appropriate for them to alert us when strangers approach our homes or when they hear an odd noise. But dogs can also bark inappropriately, and excessive barking can be disruptive to your household or neighbors.

If we want to control barking, we need to understand our dogs a bit.

1. Our dogs bark for a reason.  It could be a reasonable one that should be responded to such as hunger or thirst.  It’s important to look at the reasons your pet may be barking and work on responding effectively to these reasons. For example, if your pet is barking out of boredom, you may need to make more toys or exercise available to your pet; while letting your pet know that barking for boredom is not acceptable. 

 

2. Saying “no” to a barking dog doesn’t stop barking -- your dog may see this as your barking too, and this is not an incentive for them to stop.

 

3. You want to communicate with your dog, letting them know your expectations. This includes letting them know when barking is appropriate.  You can use a command such as “silent,” when your dog barks and follow with praise when your dog ceases barking.  Use gentle tones. 

 

4.  Consider a bark control tool.  Bark Control tools help reinforce communication with your dog, letting them know when barking is appropriate and when it is not.  Learn more about bark control tools (link).

The most important part of controlling barking is to be aware of your pets needs and be consistent in your method of reducing and controlling barking.