Bringing a new dog into the family is always a joyous event, however, barking can often turn into a problem if it’s not properly managed. We’re not talking about occasional, normal barking, we’re talking about barking at anything and everything. This can quickly become annoying and bothersome. However, there are several ways you can prevent this from happening. It’ll take some time, but be consistent and patient.

Reasons the Dog Barks

A dog can bark for many reasons. It’s not always a sign of danger and it doesn’t always mean the dog is intimidated. The reasons will vary depending on the dog’s personality and the surroundings. Sometimes dogs are protective and territorial. As soon as something or someone enters their territory, they’ll start barking to alert you that there’s someone coming.

Barking may also serve as a warning sign. The dog could get startled by some unexpected sounds or things. This is something that might happen outside and inside the house. Boredom and loneliness might occasionally be the cause of barking. Some breeds require your undivided attention because they suffer from loneliness.

They may use barking as a greeting in certain situations. This type of barking generally occurs in a joyful fashion and is brief in duration. Some dogs use their barking to get your attention when they want to play outside, when they want a treat or need to go to the bathroom. Another case of excessive barking is separation anxiety that some dog breeds experience.

Ways to Prevent Excessive Barking

Anti-Bark Collars

These types of collars have always been a controversial topic in the pet world. Dog trainers and owners have differing opinions on them. But regardless of what they claim, one thing is certain: they work well to prevent your dog from barking. This is a collar made for all dog breeds. You can find a highly-efficient bark collar for large dogs and an equally efficient one for smaller breeds.

The divided opinions are mainly because of how the collars work. When the dog starts barking, they send a small electrical current through the dog’s neck. However, you don’t have to worry about your dog’s safety because manufacturers have greatly improved the levels of intensity and techniques of the collars.

The collars for small dogs are very carefully measured and less intense than the ones for bigger breeds. Typically, the intensity is determined by the breed, weight, and size of the dog. The collar is controlled through a remote with a push of a button. It allows you to increase or decrease the intensity and change the other settings.

When dog owners have exhausted all other options, this collar is typically their final solution. Some people also use it with dogs that tend to scratch or bite the furniture, pull at everything, and run away from their owners. When the dog runs away, it can be a problem for both the dog and the owner. To prevent this from happening, use the collar to teach the dog to not go over the fence.

You won’t have to shout at the dog or chase it around. The simple feedback with the mild shockwave will send the message that it’s behaving inappropriately. When it happens the first few times, the dog may react with fear and panic. But don’t let this deter you from the goal. Give the dog some time to adjust. Always start with the lowest intensity and always reward the dog with a treat after a job well done.

Remove the Dog from the Trigger Area

This is more of a temporary but immediate solution to the barking problem. It can be helpful in some situations. If your dog is playing in the yard and there are construction workers nearby, grab its toys and place them on the opposite side of the yard. This way the dog won’t get distracted by the workers and will focus on the toys.

Try going inside if this doesn’t work. The goal is to change and modify the surroundings and eliminate the strangers. Again, this is not a long-term solution, but it works in certain situations when you need immediate reaction.

Ignore the Bark

This is a good technique to apply to dogs that have all of their needs met. The dog is fed, went for a walk, had water, played with you and had your undivided attention. Once the dog starts barking for attention, you can use the bark collar for large dogs or try with silence. Just ignore the fuss.

Turn around. This will give the dog a sign that it’s not getting your attention and it’s not the right way to communicate with you. Look away and don’t react. If you stay quiet the dog will stop barking and try to find another way to communicate. Although it takes time and patience, this method works in most cases.

Introduce a Quiet Zone

For dogs that suffer from anxiety, stranger-danger stress, or barrier frustration, a quiet area is the perfect solution if you don’t want to use a large dog bark collar. You can create the quiet zone by placing a bed or a crate where the dog can lay down and relax. You can add some toys to keep it busy or even the water or the food bowl. It’s one of the most effective ways to prevent the dog from barking.

Try Treats and Toys

Toys and treats will undoubtedly help you in an excessive barking situation. There are several situations where you can use this method. For example, when meeting new people, when another dog passes by or when the doorbell rings. Instead of focusing on the surroundings, the dog will focus on the toy or the treat. This will become a habit, and the dog will continue to focus on you even if there isn’t a treat in your hand.