Solutions for barking

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It's in a dog's nature to bark. They enjoy barking, and they bark for many reasons. They will bark when they want something, when they are playing, when they are establishing their territory, when they are frightened, when they are annoyed, and when they are just saying "Hi!" Too much barking, however, can drive a dog's family--and their neighbors--crazy!

The first step towards controlling excessive barking is to understand the specific reasons behind it. Even after you know the why, don't expect to wave a magic wand and stop your dog from barking. Training your dog to bark less (you will never stop it altogether) is a time-consuming process. Also keep in mind that some breeds are more apt to bark than others and these could prove more difficult to train.

Generally, there are eight reasons why dogs bark:

• Territorial or defensive barking
• Excitement, or happiness at seeing you
• Play and exercise
• To get your attention or to signal you (i.e. "I have to go potty!")
• Aggravation over not being able to attain something (such as your pork chop).
• Social barking in response to other dogs
• Separation anxiety and trepidation
• Compulsive behavior

A List of Don'ts:

• Don't encourage your dog to bark at strangers or people walking by the door. Asking your dog "who's that?" in a querying tone will excite their curiosity. Looking out the window or door will encourage him to do the same, and once there, he will bark.
• Don't use inconsistent rules. If you yell at him for barking at some sights or sounds, such as the kids leaving for school, and encourage him to bark at others, like the salesman at the door, he will be hard-put to distinguish between the two events. The result will be a still-constantly barking dog.
• Don't punish your dog if the barking is due to fright or separation anxiety. You may have the opposite effect of increasing his anxiety, and therefore, his barking. A Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist or Veterinary Behaviorist can give you specific directions for correcting this behavior.
• Don't use a muzzle or HusherTM as a substitute for training, or while you are absent. Your dog regulates his temperature through the mouth by panting and muzzles prevent your dog from doing this as well as drinking water and eating.
• Don't attempt to make your own muzzle using rope or rubber bands. Not only is it cruel, it can be dangerous for the dog.

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