How do you stop dogs from barking naturally?

Answer 1

A well adjusted, socialized dog, that gets enough exercise, has been given consistent rules and boundaries since coming into your home would not be inclined to bark at inappropriate times. However, granted there are some breeds that like to vocalize at any and everything. One method of getting your dog to stop barking is to first train him TO bark "on command". Once you can get your dog to bark on command by using the word "Speak" or other chosen word, have him speak for as long as you encourage him to do so. Then, use a distinct odd word like "Cut" --(not one you may have used previously that may have a negative connotation, like "shut-up" or "be quiet")--to command him to stop. When he does, praise him a lot. Do this only using positive reinforcement technique's.

If you do this at least daily, during calm training sessions, (when there are no other distractions) for a week, or a month (however long it takes) your dog will then understand that it is only OK to bark when you want him to. ( or if he does bark, you then have a command to give him that he understand you want him to stop.)

A dog will also bark if he thinks he is the 'Pack Leader' of your household. If you are not acting as the pack leader, your dog will assume the role and go frantic when ever 'HIS' domain is being encroached upon. He feels that he needs to control everything that happens because YOU are not. This is not a happy situation. It is stressful for both you and the dog.

If you are complaining about a dog that is tied outside for hours, days, weeks or longer, the dog is probably asking for the attention he is not getting.

It has recently been proven (through MRI brain scans) that dogs have emotional centers in their brains not unlike humans, so they too can feel lonely, sad, happy, scared, joyful, abandoned and bored out of their minds.

Remember it is not an issue of "Do they know any better or do they reason, or do they understand?" it is a question of "Can they suffer?" The answer is yes, both physically and emotionally.

Barking collars are cruel. The best way to curb a barking dog is to address the reason, not the symptoms. Understand why the dog is barking and address it.

Dog have been domesticated for thousands of years. Most dogs have been selectively bred to be companion animals, not lawn ornaments. Every fiber of their being wants to be WITH you, not tied outside. Consider that fact.