Puppies and dogs, as mentioned, are social creatures. When they don't get the attention they need, then a bark is their method of telling you something. It's your job to figure out the reasons behind the barking and then ease the tension of whatever is causing your puppy or dog to do so. At the same time, you are also teaching him that barking (in certain situations) isn't acceptable behavior. If you do not take such training seriously, you may not get thrown out of the neighborhood, but you may receive a visit from the police regarding animal ordinances!
There are a lot of reasons why your dog might be barking. First, he might be lonely or bored. There are distinctive barks for these feelings. If he barks at random and whines shortly after, this might be the case. Be sure that you give your dog plenty of attention each day. Groom, pet, hug and play games with him too. If there are certain days where you might be too busy, try hiring a dog walker, neighbor or even a doggy daycare clinic to help attend to the needs of your animal.
Your dog could be frustrated. Is there a squirrel that taunts the dog while he's outside or a cat that climbs around the shrubs? If it's something like this, he is simply operating from instinct. When your dog barks, repeat, "NO BARK" and give him a chew toy instead to occupy him until you can take care of the matter.
Is your dog hungry or thirsty? Be sure your dog's basic needs are met. Even humans get grumpy and out of whack when they're hungry and tired. Should you expect any less from your canine? Is your dog requesting you for some other reason?
Your dog could be scared of something. Is there a loud sound in the distance? Your neighbor could be using a chainsaw or other yard machinery that intermittingly causes your dog frustration.
If you cannot get rid of the cause of the bark, you may want to try a couple of other methods for controlling your dog's barking behavior. First, try the squirt bottle method. When your dog barks, immediately squirt him in the face with clean water. It's unpleasant and he'll quickly associate barking with water in the face. Be sure to use the correct timing. If he barks and you squirt him in the face five minutes later, there will be no association and the barking will only continue.
Another method widely use is specialized collar that emits an odor (usually citronella) when the dog barks. This is effective if you're not home during parts of the day or night. Be sure to never use shock collars and never use surgical means (that are available) to 'debark' your dog. Other than that, give your dog toys and keep him indoors when you're not at home. Play games outdoors such as fetch and Frisbee. Be sure to teach him the "QUIET" command.
Try attending obedience classes with your dog. He'll learn to socialize more once the tension from the new environment around other dogs subsides. And, don't forget to neuter (or spay) your pet. This will decrease his territorial desires.
If the barking is still uncontrollable, you might consider talking to your vet. There could be something wrong or irritating your dog, such as the food you're using. Barking is quite natural, but it's your job to teach him when and where is an appropriate time. He is, after all, just trying to communicate something to you, his loveable owner!
About the Author:
Tina Spriggs is an expert dog lover whose lifelong interest in canines provides the motivation for her site. To learn more about dogs or to find gifts and toys for them visit her site at dog gifts and toys for dog lovers.
Copyright 2005. All rights reserved.
A poorly trained dog is a nuisance and can even... Read More
You may have heard that pets have been scientifically proven... Read More
Glassily transparent, the lemon tetra (hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis) could appear to... Read More
Some people have horses they don't dare tie. Why? Because... Read More
I have a business card burning a hole in my... Read More
Do you want to save money, anxiety for your kitty,... Read More
Lyme disease can be treated with antibiotics, because the disease... Read More
Do you have a home robotic vacuum cleaner? They are... Read More
Dog arthritis is one of the most common diseases that... Read More
Any person, whether a minor or adult, having been bitten... Read More
Is your dog a gentleman or lady? If so, you... Read More
Toys are fun both for our dogs and us. Lucky... Read More
Dogs come in many assorted breeds, shapes, and sizes. They... Read More
My dear owner,Thank you once again for giving me shelter.... Read More
The city I live in just increased its fees for... Read More
"Doggy breath" ? that unpleasant odor emanating from the mouths... Read More
As dogs grow older, their senses become less sharp and... Read More
Part 2: Protecting your petIf you own a cat, then... Read More
As much as you love the sound of your new... Read More
Canine Parvovirus, is a viral disease that attacks dogs and... Read More
The groups of fishes commonly referred to as Cichlids, comprise... Read More
Playing reinforces the bond between you and your cat.Playing with... Read More
As a business, I've not been in the holistic pet... Read More
Should you seriously consider buying a dog health insurance policy?... Read More
So you have a mature pair of discus fish that... Read More
Antigo wedding limo ..He will be there by your side, as your loving... Read More
A dog, like a human baby, experiences the world through... Read More
This has been one of the most rewarding adventures I... Read More
Occasionally watching Animal Planet does have its advantage. You can... Read More
Do you have at least one framed photo of your... Read More
Ever had a hankering for a certain breed of dog?... Read More
Attempting to train your dog to walk on a leash... Read More
Toys are fun both for our dogs and us. Lucky... Read More
So you're getting a Rottweiler puppy? Here are some general... Read More
Many people are searching for different means to have pets.... Read More
Standing and walking on the hind legs are tricks that... Read More
Having a cat allergy came as something of a surprise... Read More
A former coworker has a dog that had begun itching... Read More
Just say the word cancer and any of a host... Read More
It has been said that everything old is new again.... Read More
It is very important to decide whether to keep your... Read More
Just like humans, dogs are subject to diseases and illnesses.... Read More
Obesity is one of the most important health concerns facing... Read More
An easier and more pleasant journey with your chosen Boxer... Read More
A German Shepherd puppy can become a very welcome member... Read More
Are you thinking about getting some discus then and want... Read More
The act of offering Christmas gifts is always enhanced if... Read More
Having a pet is an experiance that I think everyone... Read More
Among the most well known cat lover gifts are photo... Read More
Can cats and dogs live together without constantly being at... Read More
Pet |