“Ask the trainer” (Barking dogs) by San Choi, KPA-CTP
Living with a barking dog can be a challenge. What can you do to help you and your dog?
“ My dog barks every time I leave him out in the yard. My dog starts to bark when he hears the other dogs bark or sounds in the neighborhood. A friend suggested using a yell “NO” at my dog, and use a squirt bottle on my dog to show him who’s boss. I tried it today and it only works for a second or two, and I don’t want to carry a squirt bottle around forever, and I don’t want to yell at my dog. I would appreciate any suggestions you can give me.”
Sincerely,
Your neighbor.
Dear Neighbor,
Thank you for reaching out and seeking a solution for your dog's barking. It seems your furry friend is stressed due to the neighbor's dogs, especially since the barking started with the new neighbors. Barking can be a nuisance, causing stress for both pet parents and their furry companions. While it's inconvenient, it's essential to address the environmental stressors causing this behavior.
I'm pleased you're looking for positive methods to help your dog. It's crucial to note that punishment can create a rift between dogs and their owners, leading to increased stress and undesirable behaviors. Dogs don't understand punishment; they bark because it works, not to challenge your authority. Your dog's behavior is a response to boredom, frustration, fear, and the need for attention.
Think of it like a toothache – pain relievers offer temporary relief but don't solve the root problem. Let's find a realistic solution for you and your pet. While there's no "cure" for barking (dogs will be dogs), we can significantly reduce it.
Tips to Reduce Barking:
Create Stressor Buffers: Use white noise machines and calming music to relax your dog during stressful situations. Check out Canine Lullabies at www.caninelullabies.com or http:// throughadogsear.com for dog-specific calming sounds.
Window Covers: Block visual stressors like UPS trucks and letter carriers by using window covers. Identify specific stressor triggers (trash day, gardening) and distract your dog with enrichments during those times.
Enrichments Guide: Explore our enrichment guide for soothing activities to reduce stress in dogs.
Teach Recall: Train your dog to come back to you when stressed. Visit our website for tailored programs and webinars to help you get up to speed with your recall training.
Variety and Exercise: Consider doggie day school for variety or take your dog out for extra exercise on challenging days.
Quality Nutrition: Feed premium, grain-free food with probiotics for a healthy gut. Below is a link with more resources.
https://www.amazon.com/Purina-Veterinary-Fortiflora-Nutritional-Supplement/dp/B001650NNW/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=flora+probiotic+for+dogs&qid=1610570759&sr=8-3 for a good probiotic gut health.
Holistic Diet: Visit https://healthypets.mercola.com for information on a well-balanced holistic diet.
Finally, communicate with your neighbor about the situation. Dog behavior management is a team effort, and involving others makes the process easier.
Good luck, San Choi, KPA-CTP
