Every animal has its own unique ways of communicating. With dogs, some of the ways they communicate are barking, whining, grunting, and growling. Barking is especially helpful for dog owners, as it tells them how their pet feels or if there’s a danger or a threat close by. However, despite all the benefits barking provides, it can get out of control and start causing trouble for their owners.
To control undesirable barking, there are several ways by which this can be done that will not cause harm or anxiety to the dog. Here they are:
Make sure his behavioral needs are met. Oftentimes, canines bark excessively simply because some of their needs are not properly met. For example, dogs need adequate exercise, just like humans do. If this need isn’t met, dogs tend to bark more excessively than normal. Being left alone for long periods of time can also trigger undesirable barking, so make sure there’s someone that can keep him company when you’re away.
Don’t reward the behavior. In other words, don’t respond to the dog’s excessive barking by doing or providing him with something he might construe as a reward. In fact, do the opposite – remove those perceived rewards. For example, if every time he barks you get up and approach him and give him a gentle rub or pat on the head, he would consider that as a reward for the barking. Instead, walk away or leave the room so he will learn that what he’s doing is counter-productive.
Reduce the motivation. If your dog engages in territorial barking, which is not necessarily a bad thing as it warns you of the presence of visitors or intruders, try reducing opportunities for him to defend his territory. Although it’s not advisable under certain circumstances, what you can do is to block your dog’s ability to see or sense people and animals. If it’s a TV show or advertisement that triggers the barking, simply turn off the TV or whatever you think sets him off.
Teach him to control his impulses. This may sound like a tall order, but this can be done through obedience training. Dogs can get on a barking frenzy when they’re excited or frustrated. They may want to get out and play with children outside or want to socialize with a dog on the other side of your fence. Obedience training may involve teaching him how to wait and sit before he’s allowed to do what he wants to do.
Use an anti-bark collar. There are various types of devices that are effective in teaching dogs to curtail their barking. However, not all of these devices are safe and humane. The PetKing Premium Anti-Bark Collar is both effective and safe. It doesn’t use irritating sprays or harmful electroshocks. It simply makes use of progressive sound and vibration to let your dog know that his barking is unwanted.
Enlist the help of a professional. If all else fails, best to ask experts such as animal trainers, behaviorists, or veterinarians so they can give you valuable advice on how to get the excessive barking under control. Make sure they see your pet’s barking episodes to give them clues to help solve the barking problem.
Barking is in a dog’s DNA. In fact, they consider barking as their job, so they might feel useless if they don’t bark. However, the barking can sometimes get out of hand and needs to be curbed. By following the tips above, you’re one step closer to having a happier and more satisfying relationship with your best friend.