Barking is the most important way of communicating for a dog and is natural... like talking for humans. Some say it is the essence of a dog. Can you even imagine a dog that has lost its ability to bark? But at times barking may be annoying and even unacceptable. So, sometimes you'd probably like to stop the barking completely, but that would be impossible and counter productive. What you want to do is to train away the useless barking.
Training your dog not to bark, however, is not a simple task since you are trying to control the inherent nature of the species. For this reason there is the need for a lot of perseverance and also patience on your part. But, if you have the sufficient grit, you will definitely succeed. But always keep in mind that there are several reasons that a dog may and even should bark. It may be hungry, jealous of another dog, have pointed out an interloper in your territory... or you or your dog may be in danger. If you can identify any such reason, you can solve the barking without any further delay. But if your dog continues to bark for no reason it is time for you to put Fido in check and enforce the appropriate training techniques you've been working on.
Your first step should be to identify the breed of your dog and its strengths and weaknesses. It should be noted that dogs belonging to some particular breeds bark more than others and perhaps will need a little extra leeway. (For this reason it is suggested, if possible, to research breeds before choosing a pet, especially if you are going to be living in an apartment, condo or restricted area.) And then the first step in the actual training process is for you to establish your own leadership as the alpha dog. Dogs, being wild animals that live in packs under the guardianship of a leader, by nature react to the supremacy of a leader that makes others surrender to him. It may be that your dog doesn't see you as the leader or doesn't trust you and is therefore barking. So, you will have to establish yourself as the leader to help stop this menace. And if you have more than one dog, the pack phenomenon, will make the dynamics even more difficult.
You should also concentrate on your dog's need for exercise and diversion. Try to take all measures possible to ensure your dog gets the exercise and diversion it needs on a regular basis. This is a proven way to keep the dogs under control. Scarcity of exercise results in an increase of negative behaviors, of which barking is the most prominent and generally the biggest nuisance; chewing is probably the second.
Simply walking is not enough, especially for most large dogs and active breeds like greyhounds. Knowing your breed is a huge factor in training and controlling your dog's behavior. Regular walks, a chance to run of the leash, playing fetch or ball, and training will help in curbing your dogs need to bark. Dog obedience training and precisely command training is a good activity for your dog. Command training helps challenge your dog. You should begin with the simplest commands that your dog can comprehend quickly, and be generous with rewards and praise. Never conduct the command training for long periods; 15 minutes every day will be enough. And never forget to make the training sessions lively.
A healthy diet, with some variety, is also an added plus to good behavior.
And if you have a dog that is cooped up all day with nobody home, the barking issue is on you. Hire a dog walker, play music or the TV while you are gone... and learn to live with a little barking or chewing.
And if all fails, a professional dog training center remains your next option.
Marion Algier, Just One More Pet: http://justonemorepet.wordpress.com/ |
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