Hiya, my dog won’t stop barking. He has always barked more than the average, but the last few months have been unbearable. Everything sets him off. How can I get him to stop barking so much? I’m at my wits’ end, and my neighbors have complained to our landlord. Have you got any tips or products you think might help? Thanks
Hi SirBarksALot. This is a lot more common than you think, and it is something you can address. We have a guide on why dogs bark a lot. Here are some tips when tackling this issue.
– First off, don’t tell your dog off, as this can make things worse.
– Try and avoid or address the things that they are barking at. For example, if they bark at letters being posted through the door, install a postbox in the front yard. If it’s because they can see people walking past your home, install a blind or window screen.
– Make sure your dog is getting enough exercise and mental stimulation.
– Reward them for being quiet. Positive reinforcement is a much more effective training method than punishment.
However, if your dog barks at everything, you might want to speak to a professional trainer who can address the root cause of this behavior and work with you. The online dog trainer Doggy Dan is another affordable and convenient way to work through these issues. Behavioral changes can also result from a medical issue, so it’s wise to speak to your vet, too. Good luck!