Barking is not unusual behavior for dogs and other canines – it is something they have naturally evolved to do. In fact, barking is the primary mode of communication among dogs.
However, dogs may become a nuisance, especially if they bark uncontrollably in a residential neighborhood. To make matters worse, most dog owners are not well informed on how to respond to pets that bark incessantly. Due to this lack of knowledge, dog owners end up appeasing the dog, which only reinforces their unruly behavior.
Be that as it may, dealing with a barking dog is a skill that anyone can learn. To stop your dog from barking, you must first be able to identify the root of the problem. Most dogs tend to bark in order to get their owner’s attention or affection. However, some dogs develop the habit of barking as a leisure activity, which makes them harder to deal with.
If your dog is becoming a nuisance by barking all the time, here are some of the measures you can take to deal with the situation:
- Exercise your Dog Regularly
If you are a busy person who works away from home, you should ensure that your pet gets enough exercise before you leave the house. This will allow your dog to rest and rejuvenate while you are away.
- Employ the use of Dog Toys
Dog toys are very useful at keeping dogs active without being a nuisance. If your dog has become annoying with its barking, you may want to consider getting a dog toy to keep it engaged.
- Consider Hiring a Professional Dog Trainer
Sometimes it may be wise to enlist the services of a professional dog trainer to deal with the problem. These experts are usually skilled in dealing with dogs that are hard to train. They may enroll your dog to various programs, in order to provide better training and coping mechanism.
- Manage your Pet’s Environment
If you plan on leaving your dog at home, you should try to make the environment as homely and familiar as possible. One way you can do this is by leaving your Television or radio on when you leave for work. This is effective, as it creates the impression that you are at home. As a result, the dog will be less likely to be tempted to bark.
A Final Word: Here is what you need to consider
While barking is a normal behavior, it can sometimes spiral out of control and become a nuisance to your neighbors. When this happens, it is crucial to take measures to diffuse the situation.
The aforementioned tips can help you get your dog to stop barking and train it to behave better. Remember, you do not have to approach this situation alone. When in doubt, always consult a professional dog trainer. The vast experience and training they have in dealing with dogs make them very valuable, when it comes to stopping your dog from barking.
