Dog Barking Problems
It is perfectly normal and reasonable for dogs to bark from time to time, just as children make noise when they play outdoors. Dogs can bark for appropriate and good reasons, such as when strangers approach the house or when they hear an odd noise. But dogs can also bark inappropriately. And excessive barking is a symptom of a problem that needs addressing -fast- for both the owner and the neighbors sanity. Continuous barking can be annoying especially to neighbors who want to have a good night rest. Dog barking problem often causes neighborhood quarrels. To control dog barking problems, the owner needs to understand the reasons why the dogs are barking. There are quite a number of reasons why dog bark. And some of which are that the dog may be barking to get the owner’s attention. It may be barking to guard its territory against intruders or protect his food from other dogs, or simply that it may be a response to something it is afraid of.
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Curing the Issue
To control dog barking problems, it must be made clear to the dog that it will not get rewarded for any undesirable barking. The owner should not shout “NO” when the dog continually barks because it will only make matter worse since the dog is thinking that the owner is joining him in barking, too. The owner should teach the dog that barking is not something to be proud of and it will not do any good. The dog has to stop barking first before it can have what it wants. Pick a one-word command like “ENOUGH” when the dog barks excessively. Be consistent and always use the same tone of voice when commanding. Everyone in the household must be instructed to use the same command and tone. Consistency is a sign of great command.
If the dog barking problem occurs when the owner leaves the house, the dog should be provided safe and interesting toys to keep it busy. And importantly, the owner must not draw attention to himself when leaving the house. Sometimes barking occurs when the dogs are bored or stressed out. The owner should make sure that the dog gets enough exercise. When the dog is stressed out and keeps on barking, the owner should not hug the dog for comfort because it will only reinforce the dog barking problem.
A lot of patience is needed in training, for the dog and the owner himself. Changing a bad behavior takes a lot of time. If the owner becomes angry at the dog, the chance to modify the behavior will be gone. And hurting won’t do any good to the dog. It can become hardheaded and be harder to train.