Please Tell Me Why My Dog Barks Constantly!

By Carol Bennett

It's pure nature for a dog to bark. That is their vocal way of communicating to the world and they bark for a variety of reasons. But, when a dog barks constantly it becomes a problem.

One of the reasons a dog barks constantly is because he or she may simply be bored. The bored dog barks constantly because they just do not have anything else to do to use up the energy he or she has. Dogs have a need to play and exercise to keep them stimulated and entertained. If you are leaving your dog tethered all day or in a crate for long periods of time, they have nothing to do to burn off energy. Boredom sets in quickly for a dog and if not given some outlet, their barking can become excessive.

It is possible that your dog barks constantly because he or she can see the neighbor dogs or children playing across the street or down the road and wants desperately to join them. This barking is their way of saying so. It is also possible that the neighbor children have teased your dog and the barking is their way of saying they do not appreciate it.

Another reason a dog barks constantly is that they are lonely or anxious. Sometimes dogs have separation anxieties and do not know how to handle your leaving them or being alone and only know to bark to release this energy and to let you know they are anxious.

Your dog may be barking constantly because he or she can hear other dogs across town barking. This is there way of telling each other "I'm here, too!" In the case of a household with multiple dogs, one dog may be the initiator of the barking and all the others just have to join in.

Sometimes a dog barks constantly because he or she is just seeking attention. Puppies and adult dogs alike learn very early that if they bark, they get your attention in either a positive or negative way. Either way, it is attention and the barking worked. To help stop this behavior, the best thing to do when your dog barks is nothing. Do not acknowledge the barking and the dog will learn that's not how to get your attention.

To help your dog control this barking, it's going to take some work and patience on both your parts. You have to first determine what the cause of the barking is and make a plan to help your dog relax or redirect energy at these times. You can find helpful tools and tips at your library, at the vet's office or even here online to assist you in teaching your dog to stop that excessive barking.

It is never a good idea to yell at your dog when they are barking. To the dog, you are just joining in with the barking when you yell and this encourages the dog to continue. Instead, give them something else to focus on and redirect their energy.

Dog training is an important and vital part of your dog's life. A trained dog is happier, healthier and safer. Visit A Dog In Training for more dog training tips and resources.