In part one of this blog post, we shared with you 5 tips on solving problem barking. To make sure this topic is fully covered, we’re bringing you part 2, with “5 More Tips to Stop Problem Barking.” Continue reading to learn more.
- Remove the stimulus – If a window with a tantalizing view of the street and all its comings and goings (including other dogs walking by) is your dog’s biggest motivator, it might be time to get some curtains. You may also choose to keep your pup out of the problem room. Gates are a good way to keep your dog out of places they are not allowed. On the other hand, if your dog is barking due to loneliness, you might consider getting him a friend or taking him to doggie daycare.
- Use sound – Drown out problem sounds that get your dog barking. Fans, soothing harp music and even your dog’s favorite Scooby Doo cartoon are good ways to block out the sounds of other dogs or people.
- Figure out why your dog is barking – Naturally, you are going to want to find out why your dog is barking. Your dog may be trying to tell you something. He may be hurting or even feeling left out. Some patience and careful observation of your pup’s behavior should tell you.
- Evaluate your expectations – One family recently brought a dog into their lives because it was little, fluffy and just plain cute. Their hope was that the dog would happily play with the kids when the kids were interested and then sleep the rest of the time. What ended up happening is that Fido began to bark all night long when everybody went to sleep. He was bored and a bit anxious. He wanted to spend time with his family. Not able to handle Fido’s barking, his new family would let him outside at 4:30 in the morning where he would bark incessantly in the backyard and quickly disturb the neighborhood. The result was an angry, sleep-deprived family as well as really unhappy, sleep-deprived neighbors. The same family is strongly considering getting rid of the dog. If you don’t have the time and the attention to spend with a dog, then do not get one, no matter how cute they are.
- Get professional help – If all else fails, your next step may be to get professional assistance in helping you and your dog work through this frustrating behavior. There are dog trainers willing to work with you and your pup. Many of these individuals can be found through your local pet supply store or via word of mouth from dog loving friends and family.
A Note on bark collars:
When it comes to bark collars the general consensus is that they simply do not work and for a number of reasons:
- Your dog can build up a resistance to the shock or squirt of citronella of the collar – so when the collar comes off and you try to train your dog, say, verbally and with treats, it is going to be harder because Fido’s motivation threshold is higher.
- A bark collar doesn’t address the reason why your dog is barking in the first place, such as loneliness, boredom, anxiety etcetera.
- Loud sounds and the barking of nearby dogs can also trigger the collar to shock or squirt. You speaking loudly or yelling can also make the collar react.
BHFD understands that problem barking can have a significant effect on the peace and tranquility of a person’s environment and quality of life. Time, consistency, patience and a lot of love are often required to remedy problem barking. Fortunately, you may find it easier to make sure you are meeting your dog’s nutritional needs, which is why we recommend NuVet Plus. Comprised of human-grade ingredients and manufactured in an FDA approved lab, NuVet Plus is an excellent option when it comes to nutritious dog supplements. Especially made for dogs, you too can see why dog parents are starting to make the switch to NuVet Plus when you visit the NuVet Reviews where happy dog parents who have taken the time to share with us how NuVet Plus has helped improve the health and quality of life for their beloved canine companions. If you would like to learn more, take a look at the NuVet Reviews.