Your dog has different ways of communicating with you. Beyond body language – hello, play bow and tail wag – your dog also can use more verbal ways of letting you know what he wants. And while all dogs bark, there are some dogs that bark…and bark…and bark. If you have a pooch that barks excessively, it can quickly drive you (and your neighbors) crazy. Before you think that all this nuisance barking is just par for the course for your dog and family, take time to answer these questions that may put you on the path to a quieter home and a happier dog.

Do you have a barking breed?
Some dog breeds are prone to extra barking. If you have almost any type of hound, for example, your dog may bark a lot simply because it is in its blood. While you can still reduce the amount of extra barking your vocally prone pup makes, you may have an extra learning curve if you are a hound home.

Is your dog busy enough?
A bored dog is never a good thing, as he will find things to keep him busy and typically those things are not exactly the most productive or obedient options. Unwanted behaviors such as digging, chewing, scratching and extra barking are your dog’s way of burning extra energy. The best way to combat this type of nuisance barking is to pull out your leash and hit the road. Your dog gets a lot from a simple walk; he gets to spend time with you, he gets to smell and figure out what’s been going on in the neighborhood, he gets physical exercise, and he is working out his brain as well. If you find yourself avoiding walks with your dog because he pulls, barks, charges, or has other habits that make you feel uncomfortable, don’t write off walks completely. Our trainers can teach your dog leash manners and you will be able to enjoy walks – and burn off some extra energy – together.

If you find that a daily walk or two isn’t enough for your dog, or if the weather is too cold or hot for your usual mileage, obedience practice is another great way to productively burn off extra energy. When practicing or learning commands, your dog is actively engaging with you and concentrating hard. This combination is sure to eliminate extra energy from your dog, which may decrease his extra bored barking.

Do you praise the noise?
The next time your dog launches into a barking tirade, take a moment to evaluate how you and your family respond to the bark. If your dog receives extra attention (whether negative or positive) when he makes a lot of noise, he will continue to do so. Instead of yelling at him to stop, or just doing whatever he wants you to do, try to respond with a quieter and calmer approach. Ignoring your dog’s bark will show him that his noise gets him nowhere. Then, when he quiets down, give him plenty of positive attention and affection. Continue this for long enough, and he’ll get the message quickly that barking doesn’t get him attention from his humans.

Are you setting him up for it?
If your dog is a protector, chances are he will bark at anything that comes near your family yard. Runners, walkers, bicyclers, mailmen, salesmen, birds, other dogs – these are all territory invaders to your dog and he must bark to let them know to get a move on. If your dog is constantly on patrol at your front window, barking at anyone and anything that comes by, remove your dog’s chance to notice it. Pull the shades, close the curtains, or put a piece of furniture in the way of his usual spot. If he can’t see the “intruders” in the first place, he won’t be tempted to bark up a storm.

Is he scared?
Barking can communicate different needs or emotions, including anxiety, confusion, or fear. If you find that your dog is barking when you leave for work or come back home, or if your dog barks at any visitor in your home, it may be that he just needs some extra socialization. Dogs are social animals and often get benefits from being around other dogs and people. A lonely dog who spends most of the day in a kennel or empty home can end up forgetting what it is like to be around strangers or other animals. To have a well socialized dog, work with us to set up a schedule for spending the day in our Dog Training Now studio. Our dogs enjoy playtime and obedience practice, as well as observing trainers, visitors of all ages, and other dogs in our bustling studio space.

Are you giving him something else to concentrate on?
Many times, excessive barking can decrease simply by giving your dog something else to concentrate on when the barking starts. Putting your dog in a Place command, for example, gives your dog something else to focus on instead of the FedEx man coming up the driveway. You may be pleasantly surprised the results with a well timed command.

Barking can be annoying, and can put the entire household on edge. But don’t lose hope or invest in ear plugs quite yet. Dogs of any age and breed can learn manners and better behavior with the right techniques and guidance. Let our trainers develop a plan for your dog and watch your home get a bit happier and a lot quieter. Woof!