Understanding barking
Barking is a totally natural aspect of a dog's behavior and you must expect your puppy to grow into a dog that will bark. It is unrealistic, even unfair, to think you can train your dog to stop barking, but you, your family and neighbors will be happier if you can bring it under control.
"Stop barking": It's hardly surprising many people have barking problems with their dogs; dogs have no idea whether barking is something good or bad. That's because, sometimes when a dog barks, he is ignored; at other times he is shouted at to stop; then again he may be encouraged to bark if, for example, there's a suspicious, stranger nearby. So to help your dog know the rules, here's a helpful rule to start with; barking is acceptable until he is told to stop.
"Stop Barking" should be considered as a command for obedience rather than a telling off. You should let your dog bark two or three times, praise him for sounding the alarm, then say "Stop Barking" and hold out a treat in front of him. Your dog will stop straight away because he can't sniff the treat while barking; after a few seconds, give him the reward. Gradually increase the time when the barking stops to the giving of the reward and you will be able to stop your dog barking for as long as two minutes in just one training session, see Clicker training.
Tasty Tips
However, if you become worried or concerned about excessive barking that you have no control over, you should seek advice from your vet about next steps, such as specialist training or therapy.
Whining: This may sound heartless, but you should understand that going to comfort your puppy when he whines will actually make things worse. He'll think he's being praised for whining, and get into the habit. In fact, you can help him learn to stop by not going back to him when he whines. By ignoring your puppy, and only giving him attention and praise when he stops whining, he'll learn that whining and whimpering is not the way to solve things.
Related products
Adult 7+ Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports energy level & luxurious coat in Small & Mini dogs. Helps keep immune system, heart & kidneys healthy.
Adult 6+ Large Breed Chicken Meal, Barley & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports energy & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, joints, heart & kidneys healthy
Adult 7+ Beef & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Beef & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to support mobility and muscle mass for older dogs.
Adult Beef & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Beef & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy
Related articles
What to Feed Your Pregnant or Nursing Dog
Proper nutrition for your pregnant or nursing dog is vital to her and her puppy's health. Learn what you should do provide her with the proper nutrients.
Exercise Tips to Keep Your Dog Active
Discover fun and engaging games and other ways to help your dog exercise, keeping him happy and healthy.
Puppy Supplies You Really Need
Gather the following puppy supplies to prepare your family for all the fun (and commitment) that comes with being a dog parent.
Keeping Your Dog From Begging at the Dinner Table
Learn how to stop your dog from begging at the dinner table, and understand how it can help contribute to his health.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.