A key component in training your dog to bark less is understanding the reasons for the barking. Barking is one way that your dog communicates with you and over time you will develop an understanding of why your dog is barking. Sometimes your dog will bark for the right reasons, when it needs to go to the toilet or when something is wrong. Don't forget, there is good barking and bad barking!. Neighbours with barking dogs are annoying and it is up to you to train your dog about barking behaviour. You are in control and your dog will look to you for instruction about when to and when not to bark.
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Is your dog feeling bored, anxious or lonely?
The number one cause of uncontrolled barking is a dog who is feeling nervous and lonely. Are your dogs days spent almost entirely alone? To accomodate being left alone so long you will need to make sure your dog is getting one to one and a half hours of exercise per day, depending on breed. A recommended routine is a long walk before or after work. Consider hiring someone to walk your dog in the mornings and/or evenings if it's too difficult to arrange. A big thankyou will be your dogs reaction to this attention. A host of dog toys are available from pet shops etc, to try when you are away from home. Dogs love balls and perhaps you could even leave your dog a bone to chew on. If you have a few dog toys, try rotating them weekly to help your dog "rediscover" a toy.
Barking is commonly attributed to dogs who spend too much time alone. Dogs need lots of interaction, attention and communication as is the nature of a social animal. Your dog will need you to play with it and recieve a great deal of affection from you. This is what dogs love. Find activities that include your dog, when at home. Loved dogs are content dogs. A dog that is well attended to is also less likely to manifest other problem behaviors and you won't need to Stop Your Dog Whining.
Is it playtime for your dog?
Do not give in to a demanding, barking dog. A bad habit will be reinforced, if you do. A relationship built on mutual respect does not tolerate this sort of harassment. Ignore this type of behavior if you want your dog to stop demanding your attention in this way. An effective way to do this is to turn your back to your dog, without responding and move away. Your dog is not used to this and will be confused to begin with. Since the barking behavior has worked in the past your dog may thinking that if it barks for just a little longer you will give in. Don't do it! Be firm. Almost certainly the barking will get worse before it gets better. Lots of praise is required to reinforce the correct behaviour. Positive reinforcement is the key and your dog wants to please you. After a short time of consistent work your dog will re-learn this behavior and stop barking to attract your attention.
Consistency is a requirement to effectively train your dog. Pack animals such as dogs are most at ease and well behaved when they understand the pecking order. Your leadership is necessary for your dog to respect you and become well adjusted, well behaved and happy. A good dog is not necessarily a quiet dog. It is your clear direction that will teach your dog when it is appropriate to bark.
To discover more about barking behavior take a look at How to Stop Your Dog Barking.
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