There is nothing quite as annoying in a quiet neighborhood as a dog that barks endlessly all day.
Well, unless it's your dog that is doing the barking and you notice that your neighbors are gathering on your front lawn to have a little talk with you.
There is no need to panic, however, because this behavior can be trained away.
Here are some tips for understanding and solving your dog's barking problem.
Why Dogs Bark Often Dogs bark because their physical needs, like food, water and having to go outside to relieve themselves, are not being met.
Dogs are territorial and bark to scare off intruders while alerting you.
Dogs bark to establish dominance over other dogs, animals and people.
Dogs are very social and often bark when bored and want attention.
Some dogs bark when they are hurt or sick, as if to keep anyone away that might annoy them or cause additional pain.
Device Related Training Methods Shock collar training.
This is an electrical device attached to the dog's collar.
It senses when the dog barks then administers a small, harmless, but noticeable electrical shock to your dog.
If the barking continues after the first shock, the device is usually programmed to give a stronger shock.
Bark spray collar.
This device functions in a similar manner to the shock collar.
Instead of giving a mild electrical shock in response to barking, it sprays a harmless lemon scent.
De-Barking surgery.
This a bit extreme, but in some cases necessary.
It is not harmful to your dog.
Your dog will not even realize that their bark has been replaced with a squeak or a "huh" sound.
They are just happy that you are no longer shouting at them.
Conventional Dog Bark Training Tips Visit the veterinarian.
It is always good to rule out a physical sickness as the potential cause of a barking problem.
Do not yell or hit.
This often leads to confusion and more barking, Instead, say "no" in a firm, non-yelling tone.
Use positive reinforcement.
Reward your dog with treats and affection when they are quiet after obeying your command to stop barking.
Use mild negative reinforcement.
Keep a spray bottle of clean water within reach.
Spray him in the face when he barks inappropriately.
Do not accidentally give positive reinforce for inappropriate barking.
Don't "baby talk" to soothe your dog if you feel he is barking from anxiety.
Also, if your dog is in the habit ofbarking when you come home do not look, touch or speak to him for at least 10 minutes.
This will help break the association barking for affection.
Socialize your dog.
Take him with you in the car and on lots of walks.
This will reduce his fear and anxiety by making these activities familiar.
Less anxiety often leads to less barking.
Allow your dog to be part of the family.
Because dogs are so social by nature they have a need to be near the activity center of your household.
If they are kept in the house locate their crate or sleeping area near the kitchen or any active room in the house.
The bottom line is that mild, harmless punishments, like spraying with a water bottle or withdrawing affection are essential to teach the dog which specific behavior is undesirable.
In the same way, positive affection and treats are necessary to demonstrate to the dog the appropriate replacement behavior for barking.
Both types of basic training are effective if combined with lots of patience, reasonable expectations and training consistently.