Stop Your Puppy’s Barking From Driving You Mad
Does your puppy’s barking drive you or your neighbors mad? May be you are at the end of your tether and do not know what to do. The first mistake that people make is to think that they can stop their puppy from barking completely. It is important to understand that barking is normal behavior. This is how your puppy communicates It is only when the barking is excessive and inappropriate that you should take action.
When puppies bark it is for a reason so before any action is taken you should find out why. Puppies can bark because they are lonely, bored, anxious, frustrated or frightened. They could also simply be hungry, need to pee or want to go outside.
However, if your puppy continues barking excessively and inappropriately you should say “quiet” or “enough” in a stern voice. If this command does not work then you need to give your puppy a correction by pulling them away from what they are barking at. It may be a good idea to give a quick tug on the collar.
When your puppy stops barking, it is important to give praise, such as”well done” and “good” in order for puppy to understand this is a correct behavior.
If your puppy is outside and is barking to come in, but you are not ready to let them in, then use a command such as “quiet” or “enough” in a stern voice through the door. Puppies can hear through the door. Remember not to open the door until you are ready to let them in.
If this does not work then you could kick the bottom of the door from the inside. This makes a loud noise which can startle your puppy. This seems to work quite well.
You could also lean out a window and spray water from a bottle or hose. This gives your puppy a reason to stop. If you do this action consistently, your puppy will eventually get a negative reinforcement for barking.
Do remember to give praise when your puppy stops barking. You must be consistent in praising positive behavior and giving a negative reinforcement for unwanted behavior.
It is important to understand the reasons why puppies bark in order for you to take the best action!
Visit the Training Puppy Tips website for more detailed information on stopping your puppy barking. You can use the same techniques for stopping your puppy growling.
