Below we have listed a few simple ways to help stop excessive barking:
* Exercise your dog daily if not more. Tired dogs will spend their time sleeping and resting rather than barking.
* Buy your dog some good chew toys. Chewing is a great stress reliever and is an excellent way to occupy your dogs time.
* Try to hide any outdoor noises. This can be as simple as turning on the radio or TV for your dog, weather you are home or away.
* Always acknowledge your dogs barking. Often times your dog is simply trying to alert you to something, and if you acknowledge him, he should stop barking.
* Teach your dog the “Quiet” command. If your dog continues barking after you acknowledge him, say “Quiet” sternly without yelling. If he stops barking, praise him.
* Create a noise shaker. Put a few pennies in an empty soda can and tape it shut. If your dog does not respond to your quiet command, shake the can. Dogs do not like that sound and will often stop what they are doing when they hear it.
* Give him a squirt. Give your dog a stern “Quiet,” and give him a quick squirt with a water bottle, or water gun. Remember to always aim for your dogs body rather than his face.
* Know when to switch strategies. If you do not see any improvement with a particular strategy, its time to switch, so give another one a try.
