Dogs bark to communicate and express their emotions, but excessive, persistent, and inappropriate barking can make it difficult to enjoy life with your furry friend. In some scenarios, unmanaged barking can lead to surrender or rehoming, as dog owners face noise complaints and possible eviction or fines.
Sadly, because barking is a self-reinforcing behavior (i.e., dogs enjoy it and, in the dog’s mind it creates the desired result, such as when the mailman walks away), it can be difficult to solve. At OC Working Dogs, we believe finding the underlying motivation for your dog’s behavior is the first step toward reducing any unwanted behavior.
Here are five common reasons why dogs woof, and some simple strategies to minimize unwanted barking.
#1: Alert barking in dogs
Dogs are natural guardians, and alert barking is their way of telling you—and anyone in the vicinity—that something is happening. While this can be helpful and appreciated (e.g., an unfamiliar car in your driveway or a stranger peeping through your window), dogs don’t always know the difference between a harmless event and a genuine threat. Dogs who are hypervigilant or sensitive to their surroundings may alert bark at anything that seems out of the ordinary (e.g., a grocery bag in the wind).
Minimize alert barking by reducing visual and auditory stimuli. This could include blocking access to your front window or playing white noise to drown out passing traffic. At the same time, teach your dog the “quiet” command. When they bark, say “quiet” and immediately reward them when they stop. Gradually increase the duration of quietness before rewarding to reinforce the behavior. Resist the urge to get louder or shout at your dog, which may be misconstrued as barking back.
#2: Boredom barking in dogs
Like children, dogs who lack mental and physical stimulation will find new ways to preoccupy themselves and express their frustration and stress. If your dog isn’t receiving appropriate physical exercise and personal attention, they may begin to bark at everything and for long periods.
Fortunately, reducing boredom barking is relatively easy—simply increase your dog’s daily exercise and enrichment. This includes regular opportunities to run, walk, and play as well as one-on-one time during which your dog receives attention and personal interaction. A tired dog is a happy dog—and a quiet one!
#3: Attention-seeking or play barking in dogs
Dogs are savvy creatures who crave our attention, and they quickly learn that a few well-timed barks do the trick. This barking—also referred to as demand barking—is generally short and higher pitched than alert barking, and accompanied by loose, playful body language. Your dog may demand bark to get you to throw their favorite toy or before you open the door to let them outside.
The best way to curb attention-seeking barking is to remove the reinforcer (e.g., your attention or access to the item or experience the dog wants) and only reward or pay attention to your dog when they are calm and quiet.
#4: Territorial barking in dogs
Dogs are naturally territorial and may bark to establish and protect their territory or resources. Although this is generally more common in guardian or working breeds (e.g., Dobermans, rottweilers, Great Pyrenees), any dog can be a territorial barker.
Minimize territorial barking by socializing your puppy or dog as early as possible and exposing them to various sights, sounds, people, and situations. By showing your dog that these new or novel stimuli are harmless, you may be able to reduce their protective instincts. Remember to reward calm and confident behavior in unfamiliar settings to build your dog’s confidence and increase the likelihood of similar behavior in the future.
#5: Separation anxiety in dogs
Separation anxiety is a potentially serious behavior disorder in which dogs experience extreme distress during their owner’s absence. This barking is often accompanied by destructive behavior or other anxiety-related signs such as vomiting, house soiling, or attempting to escape. Unlike general training problems, dogs do not exhibit separation anxiety signs in front of the owner.
If you suspect your dog is suffering from separation anxiety, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to rule out underlying health causes. If your dog’s condition is severe, pharmaceutical therapy (i.e., anti-anxiety medication and calming supplements) may be necessary in conjunction with behavior modification. The OC Working Dogs team can help you learn how to desensitize your dog to your departures and apply various strategies to reduce stress and boost your dog’s independence.Excessive or nuisance barking is a headache for many dog owners, but understanding the “why” behind your dog’s woofs—or yips—can help you take effective steps toward achieving a peaceful relationship with your pup. If your dog’s barks, yaps, or howls are making it difficult to hear yourself think, call our team. OC Working Dogs offers a variety of dog training solutions for every possible challenge. Contact us to schedule a consultation or find the class that’s right for you and your dog.
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