As a new puppy owner, you might find yourself frustrated by the seemingly constant barking of your new pup. Sometimes your dog is barking to alert or tell you they want to play, but other times it seems like they are barking for no reason.
Luckily, there are ways we can reduce excessive barking in our pets without frustrating them into silence or resorting to punishment.
Decide if the Barking is Necessary
There are many reasons dogs bark. Barking is a natural canine behavior and one that serves many purposes. When your dog barks, they could be trying to communicate with another dog or person or alert you to something in the environment.
Sometimes barking happens when a dog wants attention from its owner—or gets something it wants, like food! Dogs also bark because they’re bored or anxious and want entertainment (like playing fetch).
So if you think your puppy is barking for an unnecessary reason, such as just wanting attention or wanting something else (like going outside), then these tips might help.
Teach Your Dog to be Quiet on Command
Use a word that is short and easy to say. For example, use “quiet” rather than “be quiet.” Practice in a quiet environment with no distractions. Reward the dog when they are quiet for at least 30 seconds before rewarding them again.
Reduce Excessive Alarm Barking
There are several reasons why dog owners should expect their puppy to bark. The most common cause is that your pup is trying to alert you to danger or get your attention when you’re not paying attention.
If your puppy appears happy when he barks at things like other animals in the yard or children playing on the street corner, then there’s no need for concern. However, if their barking goes on for too long or they bark at every car that passes by your house, what can you do?
- Remove window perches or vantage points
- Distract them with a toy
- Identify their triggers
- Thank your dog for warning you (this sounds silly, but it often works!)
Dealing with Boredom Barking
If your dog is prone to boredom barking, what can you do?
- Take your dog for a walk
- Give them a chew stick or other toy
- Play fetch
- Take them outside
- Turn on background noise like a fan or the TV
With Enough Patience, You Can Stop Excessive Barking
Barking is a natural behavior for dogs, but excessive barking can be annoying and disruptive. You might want to teach your puppy not to bark so much if you live in an apartment building or have neighbors who don’t appreciate the sound of constant yapping.
Fortunately, there are ways to stop your dog from barking—you just need patience and persistence. Your dog will eventually learn that barking is no longer helpful or necessary, which means less stress for everyone involved!
Your puppy will soon learn that calm behavior is better than excessive barking.
