Barking is one of the ways how dogs communicate. It is how they let their humans know they need something.
They bark out in excitement, in response to something that evokes their attention or to warn us when they sense that something is off or even dangerous. There are many reasons they bark, and barking is natural for dogs. But when the barking becomes excessive, you need to find out why.
A dog’s ongoing barking can test a dog owner’s patience and temper. Before it gets out of hand, the first step you can take is to identify the cause of his continuous barking.
Here are some questions to guide you:
· Who or what is your dog barking at?
o If your dog barks at a person, does he bark at you?
o If it is someone else, is that the only person he barks at or does he bark at every other person he meets?
o Is your dog barking at another dog? If yes, does he bark at every dog he meets? Or is there a dog he does not bark at?
· Where does your dog usually bark?
At home? On the street or park? Inside the car?
· When does your dog bark?
o When he is left alone at home?
o When you just got home?
o When a family member or friend comes near you?
o When does he come across someone or something new?
Consider the above questions with these common causes of excessive barking:
· Your dog is bored or lonely
· Your dog is afraid
· Your dog has too much energy not spent
· Your dog is being territorial or protective
Have you considered everything and identified the root cause of the problem?
Are you now ready for the solution?
You, as the dog owner, are the solution.
Are you truly fulfilling your dog’s needs?
A dog has a lot of energy that needs to be released. Do you get him out of the house to let all that energy out? For how long?
A leisure walk will not cut it; your dog needs to be a dog, which involves running.
If the cause is unreasonable behavior, it is still up to you. It would help if you disciplined yourself on how you handle your dog.
This is hard, but you need to be patient. It starts with how you react to your dog’s bark. It would help if you were calm and assertive. Show him you are in control, and he should listen.
You should do this with eye contact, a strict but calm voice or a snap, and body language. If necessary, use physical touch, just a simple movement to correct him.
Dogs react to their human behavior. You are the master; make him submit to you. Once he listens to you, give him a treat and pet him to let your dog know that he did well.
Different techniques can be used to train your dog to stop barking incessantly. Professionals master some techniques.
Do not hesitate to ask for help, and get a professional dog trainer.
Remember, the problem is not the dog. The problem is making your dog listen when you want him to stop barking.
Communication with your dog can be the most complicated obstacle in your relationship. It can be challenging and draining, but once an understanding exists, it is gratifying.