Dealing With A Barking Puppy – Part 2

WHY YOUR DOG BARKS AND HOW TO CORRECT IT

Bringing a new puppy into your home is a wonderful experience, but it has its challenges. Nothing alienates neighbors quicker than a barking dog. Here are some tips to keep things peaceful for you and your neighbors.

Get a Webcam

Knowing what triggers your dog to bark is essential, and a webcam is the best way to do that. With it, you can see and hear what your dog does. It may be the sound of children in the hall, or the garbage truck on the street. It may just be that they get bored in the afternoon. You need to know why before you can deal with a barking problem.

You’ll want a webcam that’s motorized so you can see more of your home. Many have speakers so you can talk to your pup. An answering machine that can screen calls will also do the trick.

Dealing with Separation Anxiety

Until your new puppy learns your routine, being left at home is stressful for them. Your dog’s fear of getting left behind starts the moment they realize you are headed for the door. The best way to prepare them is a brisk walk just before you leave. It leaves them relaxed, and the quality time with you is reassuring. A little personal attention just before you leave lets them know getting left behind wasn’t an accident on your part.

For the extra-nervous types, you can ease your puppy into the routine by making a series of short practice departures. He just needs to get comfortable with the fact you’ll be back eventually.

Alleviating Boredom

Puppies have boundless energy and sometimes barking is just a way to release it. Leaving them a chew toy, and something plush to tussle with gives them a quiet way to occupy themselves. The secret is to rotate their toys so they have something new to play with each day.

Leaving music on can also help soothe your dog. Classical or jazz music is best, just loud enough to be audible. If it’s a radio, you’ll want to make sure that the station doesn’t change formats during the day.

Ever since he was a puppy, I leave the TV on for Max when I’m not at home. He’s getting older now, and his hearing has faded, but I think he still enjoys watching it when I’m gone.

Reacting to Noises

Home alone, your puppy needs to decide for themselves if a noise is a threat, or something that can be safely ignored. You can make it easier for them by masking outside noises with music or a fan. It also helps to keep their cage away from, or out of sight of the door.

Bark Collars

Bark collars offer a gentle, consistent negative feedback that most dogs understand almost immediately. A week or two may be all it takes to permanently change a barking habit.

Leave a Reply