subject: Why Do Dogs Bark and How Can You Control It? [print this page] Why Do Dogs Bark and How Can You Control It?
Have you noticed that your dog is barking all the time? If so, it's abnormal. Many dogs bark and they bark for a variety of reasons. Before you can learn to control the barking from your dog, you first need to know why he is barking in the first place. Here is a look at some of the reasons dogs bark and a look at some great tips for controlling the barking.
Why Dogs Bark
Usually there are a few specific reasons that dogs start barking. The first one happens to be boredom. Dogs are pack animals and they need to have interaction, some social time, and exercise. Usually dogs begin barking when they haven't had any social stimulation or when your dog needs to get some exercise. The barking is simply a way that they can deal with their boredom. Allowing dogs to see other dogs and making sure they get plenty of exercise can help.
Another reason dogs bark is because they want something. If your dog needs to get a toy, he wants a treat, or he needs to go outside, he may start barking. Often this is a way for your dog to get something he wants. However, it's important that you don't teach your dog to keep up this bad behavior by giving in. This will simply train him to begin barking whenever he needs something.
Fear is also a reason that dogs bark. When dogs are frightened, they start barking. This may occur in places that they are not familiar with. It's important that you socialize your dog so he won't be frightened in every situation, which can help to stop some of the barking. Sometimes dogs will even bark when they miss you. Your dog may simply want some time to be with you.
Don't forget that dogs sometimes bark as a method of protection. Barking may be a sign that your dog thinks you are in danger or that something is wrong. In some cases, it's a good idea to pay attention to this type of barking.
A Few Tips to Control Barking
Now that you know a bit more about why dogs bark, you may be wondering what you can do to control this behavior. It all depends on the reason that your dog is barking. If he is barking because he is bored, it's a good idea to make sure that you exercise your dog more. Make sure he is tired out and he'll probably nap more. If he barks because you are gone, try to avoid making leaving the home such a big deal. Simply leave quietly without making it into a big thing.
If your dog is showing bad behavior by barking, don't reward him. Don't allow him to get away with simply barking because he wants something. Ignore the barking and teach your dog he won't get something by barking and he will be less likely to do so. Of course, in some cases, a professional dog trainer may be a big help as you are trying to keep your dog from barking as well.
