How to Stop Dogs Barking

There are a number reasons for dog barking. Your dog may begin to bark when a stranger approaches or if your house is on fire. Dogs that are in pain or frightened will also bark. A dog may bark to intimidate you or your family members, or as a way to get your attention.

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Whatever the reason, we all agree that it can be extremely annoying and seek ways to stop dogs barking. It is not unheard of for dog owners who have dogs that constantly bark to be reported to the police for disturbing the peace. Thankfully, it is possible to stop dogs barking without just cause.

The most effective method for stopping your dog from barking is to teach him when it is permissible for him to bark. A number of options are available, the best being the reward/reprimand technique. This method is both humane and effective.

Some dog owners try to circumvent obedience training with the use of an electronic or bark collar. The dog wears the collar, which is activated when the dog barks. The dog is startled when the collar emits a small electric shock. Over time, dogs begin to connect the unpleasant experience with their barking so they stop barking. It is my opinion that this is a cruel and inhumane method to stop dogs barking.

Some dogs do not connect the shock with their barking, which is one good reason for not using electronic collars. Some dogs are able to tolerate the shocks so the barking continues. In order for the collar to be effective, the prongs must touch the skin which may not happen if a dog has a thick coat. Also, it is rare for barking to be stopped just by using an electronic collar. Including obedience training will usually give the most effective results.

There are some people who believe that electronic bark collars can be discouraging to dogs. For this reason, citronella collars are the choice of some people. When the dog barks, a mist is produced from the Citronella collar. The smell is disliked by most dogs. Once your dog understands that the foul smell is emitted when he barks, he will stop barking to avoid the smell. The success rate is approximately the same as with electronic collars.

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Although an electronic collar can be a useful training device, most dog trainers and vets think that it cannot replace good obedience training. In addition, obedience training does more than simply stop dogs barking. It also helps with other dog behavior issues.

The most drastic option (and, to my mind, most barbaric) is surgery to stop dogs from barking. To stop dogs barking, tissue is extracted from the larynx. Sometimes, the dog’s ability to bark returns, making the surgery a waste of time and money. Fortunately, the surgical approach to stop dogs barking is opposed by most vets.

In conclusion, I hope we have convinced you that obedience training is the best way to stop dogs barking. If you use a shock collar to stop dogs barking, you will also not be woken up when a burglar enters your home. With the correct obedience training, your dog will protect your family but will also know when it is appropriate to bark.

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