Barking No More: The Ultimate Guide to a Well-Behaved Dog

Dogs make a lot of noise, and we have different words to describe their sounds. Although barking is a common behavior, excessive barking can be a problem for pet parents. This is especially true for those who live in apartments, as they need to keep their dogs quiet to avoid disturbing their neighbors. Also, a loud dog can startle kids in the neighborhood or make dinner time unpleasant. Even the delivery person can trigger a barking frenzy in some dogs.

Thankfully, you don't have to put up with constant barking, and you don't have to use harsh methods to train your dog. Today, we'll show you how to stop your dog from barking too much without causing distress.

Why Do Dogs Bark?

Dogs bark for different reasons, and it's important to understand why they do it to stop excessive barking.

They use barking as a way to communicate with people and other dogs. Sometimes, dogs bark to show excitement and happiness, like when they see someone they love. Other times, they bark to alert us of something new or different happening. Dogs may also bark when they feel scared or want to protect their home.

Knowing why a dog barks can help you understand how to stop it.

The Top Talkative Breeds

The following dog breeds are known to be talkative. That means they bark and howl quite a bit! While they might not be the loudest breeds, they are very likely to bark a lot.

• Siberian Huskies
• Beagles
• German Shepherds
• Terrier breeds like Jack Russel Terriers and Yorkshire Terriers
• Chihuahuas
• Breeds bred for protection like Rottweilers and Doberman Pinschers

It's important to remember that every dog is unique. Training, personality, and a dog's background can influence their barking habits. So if your dog is a constant barker, how can you get them to stop?

Breaking the Barking Habit

To stop your dog from barking, you can use positive reinforcement methods. Meaning rewarding your dog for good behavior.

You can show your dog that being calm is a good thing by giving them treats, saying "good dog," or playing with them when they stop barking. This will help them learn when it's okay to bark and when it's time to be quiet.

Remember to keep your sentences short and direct, using everyday language. Use the active voice to increase clarity.

Use Commands

One way to train your dog is by using commands.

Start with simple words like "quiet" or "enough." When your dog starts barking, say the command firmly but not angrily. If they stop barking, give them a treat or other reward. This way, they learn that being quiet brings good things.

Ignore the Barking

Sometimes, dogs bark because they want attention. If your dog barks for no reason or just to get you to notice them, try ignoring them. Don't look at them or talk to them when they bark. Wait until they stop barking and then give them attention. They will learn that barking doesn't get them what they want, but being calm does.

Provide Distractions

Dogs get bored too, and sometimes they bark because they need something to do. Give your dog toys or treats that keep them busy. This way, they focus on playing instead of barking. Puzzle toys or chew toys are great options to keep them entertained. You can also take them on a walk or play with them outside. A tired dog is a quiet dog!

Find Professional Help

If you're having a hard time training your dog, it's okay to ask for help. Professional dog trainers can give you more ideas and tips. They have experience in understanding dog behaviors like excessive barking. They can help you with different training methods and tools.

Remember, training takes time, and every dog is different. Be patient and consistent with your training methods. Training helps you and your dog understand each other. Working together helps your pup know when it's ok to bark and when it's quiet time. 

At Joyride Harness, we want to help you live harmoniously with your dog. Check out our blog for more training tips!