The Frugal Grandmom

Barking is a completely natural part of being a dog. Dogs bark to communicate with each other and with us, and this is not a problem unless they begin to bark excessively and in situations where barking is excessive. If your dog’s barking is starting to become a problem, you might be interested to know that there are several things you can do to help quieten him down. Take them to a dog training class The best way to get your dog to stop barking excessively is to have them trained at a reputable class like the ones offered by All Dogs Unleashed. When your dog knows what is expected of them at all times, they are more secure and therefore less likely to bark excessively, and when they know that you are boss, it is more likely you will be able to get them to stop when you need to. Don’t shout at them It can be tempting to shout at your dog or tell them off when they are barking, but this is only likely to make them bark more. They will either think you are joining in with them and it will be tons of fun for them, or they will get more stressed out causing them to vocalize their feelings even more. Stay calm and you will have much more success. Avoid stressors Dogs usually bark when they are afraid or stressed out by something, so removing the stressors from their lives will really help. For example, if they are barking at a neighbor cat, then bringing them indoors will stop them from doing so, or if they are barking because they have been left alone, taking them with you or enrolling them in doggy daycare will help. Providing them with a safe space such as a crate or kennel will also help them to feel more secure and therefore less likely to bark. Distract them Distracting your dog with a treat or a game is a good way to get their minds off whatever is causing the to bark, and it is also a good way to tire them out so they are less likely to feel anxious or stressed too. Exercise them The more exercise your dog gets, the less energy he will have to bark excessively and the less likely he will be to feel stressed out and anxious so again, he will not take to barking his frustrations out around you. Exercise is good for a dog’s overall health and mental well-being, so making sure you give them enough exercise every day really is vital. Ignore it Ignoring your dog when he barks means he does not get the attention he is seeking, which means he will more than likely stop, once he does stop, shower him with attention and he will soon see that being quiet gets him what he wants more successfully than barking ever does. Dogs bark and you are never going to be able to stop them from doing so completely, but the above techniques are a safe and humane way of encouraging your dog to stop barking excessively, so feel free to try them out on your pup.