Maybe they bark at inconsequential things. If it’s getting to be a hassle to you or your neighbors, it’s time to take action, and stop your dog from behaving in that way. So lets discusss how to stop nuisance dog barking.

There are many reasons your dog could be barking, and it is important to understand exactly why and what your dog means.

Sometimes they may be barking as an alert or to guard and protect. Or they may just be a chatty dog.

Take note of their body language to decipher and act accordingly.
If your dog is genuinely happy and conversational barks, then this is nothing to worry about. But if your dog is patrolling, aggressive or scared, then these are the behaviours you will want to look at correcting.

Train your dog to react differently to certain stimuli. So instead of your dog barking at the doorbell, teach them to have a positive association with it. During training anytime they hear the sound, offer them a treat, or teach them an alternative command, such as sit, or go to their bed, etc.

That way when a guest arrives and rings the doorbell, the dog associates it as a positive experience and won’t react by nuisance barking. This is also a good habit to teach, if your dog is easily excitable or likes to jump.

Training can be a challenging task, especially in older dogs who have previously acted poorly to certain situations. Remain consistent, and don’t give up, all dogs can learn new tricks.
The earlier you teach them good behaviours the better – the better for you, your guests, neighbours and your dog themselves.

Is your dog bored? When was the last time you played with them? Or took them for a walk?

Dogs need to be exercised and mentally stimulated. They have pent up energy that needs to be released and if they aren’t getting sufficient exercise, they may choose to vocalise instead.

Dogs need daily walks to stay happy and healthy, and each breed has different exercise requirements, so choose your dog breed based on your lifestyle, not for superficial reasons.

If you can’t make the time to look after your dog correctly. Then don’t get one. It’s not fair on them, to have to fit into your lifestyle conditioning, especially if you’re personalities don’t mesh.

If you are looking at adopting a dog, be sure to extensively research the breed ahead of time. As there are some dogs bred specifically to bark and protect, such as guardian breeds. Make sure to also read our blog, things to consider before adopting.

Guardian breeds, were originally bred for life on farms, where their job was to protect farm animals from predators. They will sound the alarm and chase off any unwanted guests. When kept as house-pets, their family/home become their pack and they will bark at anything they believe to be a danger. This can prove frustrating not only to the dog, but anyone in earshot of their constant barking.

As a last resort, you can always try gadgets, such as frequency collars, that will send out a sound, when your dog barks. The sound won’t harm your dog but will usually annoy them enough to stop them from wanting to trigger the sound.

Dogs are so much more than just a backyard accessory, they are a part of the family, a living breathing creature with very real emotions and needs, and if you don’t have the capacity to meet them, then don’t get one. They are a big commitment.

But if you’re willing to take the plunge, if you’re willing to do the work, to train them properly and put in the effort, then you will have a true and loyal friend for life.

We hope you’ve learnt some tips on how to stop nuisance dog barking. As always, if you have any more questions or need some advice on your drop feel free to pop down and see the team at Capalaba Produce.