Why do some dogs bark for any reason like a crazed animal, some bark for a good reason and others hardly ever bark at all? I’ve had all three kinds. Henri is the crazed animal who barks at any animal on TV or out the window. Bear is usually good and only barks when he knows it’s time for a walk, and Sadie never barked at all (well, she was a Border Collie).

In case your dog is more like Henri and less like Sadie, you may have issues! Generally, there are reasons for all of the woofing, and your initial step is to find out just what these motives are. Are they restless any time left by themselves, or are they just trying to get your attention. Some pooches are often too protective of their premises, or they might just simply like the sound of their own voice!

Typically, should your best buddy bark when your home with him, he either needs affection or possibly is trying to let you know something he thinks is important. Barking is great when you have a watch dog, but you have to train them to stop when there is no reason for barking or when you tell them to stop.

Similar to being a parent, you must be steady and crystal clear on what you expect. It is important to encourage him along the way. Just as other things you’re trying to train them to do, you can’t do something on Friday, and then permit him to get away with it on Tuesday and Wednesday. You do absolutely no good by merely yelling at your pet from another room while he is going mad barking at the mailman.

If your dog barks specifically to get your attention, you have to learn to ignore him and walk away. If you don’t give him any attention when he barks at all (not even negative attention) he will eventually learn that his behavior is not getting him what he wants. To reinforce this, only give him attention when he is quiet. This training method is called the process of extinction and will work over a period of time as long as you are consistent.

Yet another thing to contemplate whenever you’re at home with him, and the occasion determines, is attempting to keep him or her on an indoor lead which means you’ll always know what he’s doing constantly and you’ll be in a position to seize him just before he launches into a full-on bark assault. Pick him up (in the event that he’s smaller) and close his mouth and / or make use of a head halter – which gently forces the dog’s head up, closing his jaws. Whenever he or she quits barking and relaxes, provide him with a smallish treat regardless of whether it’s simply a “Good Dog” kiss and hug or a small snack.

When you’re not at home and your dog barks insanely, there’s not much you can to short of anti-bark collars that send out either an electric or ultrasound shock or vibration. Personally, I’m not too fond of these although I have heard some good stories about the citronella oil collars, that send out a harmless spray which is triggered by barking.

Some dogs become extremely stressed when left home alone, and act out by barking non-stop. In that case, the dog should be treated for Separation Anxiety which could be the underlying cause of their barking. Outdoor dogs who bark constantly, might have to be fitted for a muzzle, or you may just have to take him out of his current surroundings and bring him inside.

Happily, with perseverance and regularity coupled with behavior modification tactics, you should be capable of making your dog a better (and quieter) member of society!

Henri Hound has been an devoted pet fanatic his entire life. He has a personal insight of just about every form of pet and their behaviors. If you’re looking for light, yet informative pet information, please read other essays of his, such as Camping With Your Dog or Combat Effects of Sun and Heat on Your Dog.

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