Reprinted Articles

Incessant dog barking is an annoying and nuisance behavior that needs to be curbed at early stages. Other than natural reasons there are situations when they bark for no apparent cause. Understanding the reasons for barking is an essential first step in dealing with this problem.

Why do dogs bark? Barking is a natural doggy behavior to convey their moods to you, to get your attention and to show their excitement. It is more than mere noise and linking the vocalization to their postures, tail movements and the facial aspects gives a true picture of what they are trying to talk to you.

Some instances are- Low pitched growl and loud bark with ears perked and tail up shows sign of his dominance. Short and sharp bark along with swift tail wags shows he is excited. Low growl escalating to a howling bark with bristled tail when he perceives intruders in the territory. High pitched constant bark when he is in distress or alone and so on.

Once you know what triggers the barking then putting a fix is an easy task. Reasons for barking fall into two main categories - Basic behavior problem and situations and circumstances contributing to the barking. Barking on instinct is natural and should not be restrained.

Now, let’s see ways to stop your dog’s problem barking which is repetitive and annoying:

* Your dog must learn first what is expected of him and what is not. If he barks to get your attention and manipulates you to give in to his needs then it is not good. If you give him a treat or play whenever he barks then it reinforces that behavior and he will do even more in the future. Turn away from him and simply disregard his barks. He may be surprised and bark harder at first by your action but the more consistent you are the effective control it would be.

* Divert his attention whenever he barks. Use “quiet” or “enough” or whatever word you want to use to divert him when he barks. Use the same word all the time not to confuse him. When he obeys to your command and stop barking, reward him with a treat and praise him immediately. He starts to associate treat and praise with the command you use and learn to be quiet.

* When your dog deliberately disobeys any of your commands, he displays his dominant position and if left unchecked will get worse with time. He needs to realize at young age that you are the authority leader an Alpha dog and he is below you. Dogs are well behaved when they know you are the leader of the pack and form a cordial relationship based on faith and respect.

* Another reason for constant barking is boredom. Dogs are social animals and need constant interaction with fellow humans. They will be on the edge without these and let out their stress through barking. Interactive play with your dog like throwing and fetching the ball and a long walk will help.

* Loneliness and Separation anxiety can trigger incessant barking: The anxiety that builds up with time when your dog is alone can cause him to bark constantly in an attempt to get out of that situation. Exercise him enough to tire him out so that he sleeps when you are away and provide enough chewy items and toys to engage him till you return.

Shock collars to curb dog barking is inhumane and is strongly discouraged. Positive reinforcement is an effective approach for all behavior issues.

Tags: Pets