Blog Post

Bark Busting Basics: How to Stop Your Dog From Barking The Right Way

Allison Christian • December 17, 2018

There are a couple of reasons why our canine companions would start to bark. However, while sometimes we welcome the various noises dogs make simply because they're funny, barking is often an inconvenience.

Now, most of the time, our dogs bark to warn us of danger. Although their sense of danger may be triggered by someone passing our apartment doors, their intentions are good. So, first and foremost, we must learn never to respond to barking with anger. Doing so will only aggravate your dog further. Instead, we should acknowledge the dog and comfort it. After all, the real reason why it's barking is that it's frightened.

Still, some dogs bark out of boredom as well . That's where we have a chance to correct their behavior some more. However, often, just spending some more time with our pups and playing with them until they're tired is enough to curb this behavior.

Whatever our dogs' reasons for barking are, we ought to identify them before deciding upon a training program. Once we understand exactly why they're behaving this way, we'll be able to help them get past it. But before we talk about how we should handle our dogs' barking, let's discuss what not to do.

What Not to Do When Your Dog Starts Barking

As we have previously mentioned, getting angry with our pups for being afraid or trying to protect us is the last thing we'd want to do. So yelling at them, let alone punishing them, would be a big mistake. It would only further stress the dogs, which can be incredibly detrimental to their overall health.

However, while we don't want to punish barking, we certainly don't want to reward it either. Instead, we want to project a calm and confident visage and compel our pups to be quiet in different ways. Seeing that we're calm even when they're feeling threatened will suggest to the dog that there's nothing to be afraid of. When they're in a more stable state, we can suggest ways they can deal with the situation in the future.

What to Do When Your Dog Starts Barking in Alarm

Finally, let's talk about the correct course of action to take from the moment our dogs let out the first growl. Even before our dogs start barking, there are a few signs we may be able to catch. Their ears might twitch or move back if they're feeling aggressive. Additionally, we may see the fur on their back rise. Then, they might start with a low growl or go right into a bark unexpectedly.

We understand why sudden barking may startle or even anger some people. But, once again, it's important to keep in mind that our dogs are never doing it to annoy us.

So what do we do next?
To begin with, we can remove the barking dog from the situation. Sometimes, that would mean taking it into a different room. However, if we're outdoors, stepping in front of the dog should be enough. If you've worked on hand commands with your dog, you should use the command to stand down.

However, the dog may be too upset to hear or see any command. If that's the case, we can gently pet the dog and talk to them until they stop feeling threatened. Once the dog has settled down, we can reward them with a treat and even try issuing another command. For example, telling the dog to sit or lie down might get their mind off the threat.

It also helps to know what our pups are afraid of or generally threatened by. Remember the dogs your dog usually interacts with aggressively, noises it dislikes, and other such stimulants. With a bit of practice, you'll be able to predict when your dog is about to start barking and nip it in the bud!

Need Help?

If you need help with barking, please don't hesitate to contact Naples Top Dogs, we'd be glad to help!

Allison Christian's Signature
old picture of a dog and human flying in an airplane together
By Naples Top Dog 07 Oct, 2022
Naples Top Dogs receives a few phone calls per week to assist with recent changes made by airlines effective April 2021. This is regarding the use and updates of emotional support animals and service animals on flights. It seems like most airlines caught on to some of the abuse of the Air Carrier Access Act or ACAA written in 1986.
A puppy laying down all wet
By Naples Top Dogs 10 Dec, 2020
Thinking of getting a pandemic puppy? The pandemic has definitely affected our nation in more ways than one. See if now is the right time for you to adopt a new dog!
Dog shaking a hand
By Naples Top Dog 27 Aug, 2020
Naples Top Dogs are approved by The Canine Good Citizenship Test as an Evaluator and love to start you and your pup in Puppy STAR!
Dog in a bubble bath covered in bubbles
By Naples Top Dog 10 Apr, 2020
Finding a new groomer can be an arduous process but it doesn't have to be. Here are our 4 tips on finding your perfect dog groomer!
Woman training her dog with treats
By Naples Top Dog 25 Mar, 2020
See why positive training proves to be the most effective dog training method!
Dog looking out a window
By Naples Top Dog 20 Feb, 2020
Not many of us speak dog and I have never met a dog that speaks English or any other human language. So how do you know what your dog is saying to you? Anthropomorphism, the relating of human emotions to dogs (and other nonhuman entities) is a major player in the miscommunication between dog parent and Fido. As humans, we often think our dog feels guilty, shameful, or even jealous. So what is Fido really saying? He is talking but you are not listening, or actually not reading his body language or facial signals. Happy Dog: This is the “Social Butterfly”. This dog will have a relaxed face and mouth, his tail will be wagging, to the right, another signal that your dog is comfortable with new people (you will have to watch in slow motion). His eyes will be soft, he will approach you for an affectionate back scratch. This dog has been properly socialized from a young age and/or is a breed that is particularly known for being non-aggressive, confident, social butterflies.
By Naples Top Dogs 05 Dec, 2019
Confident Car Rides and Safe Travel with Your Puppy Car rides for most puppies can be enjoyable but sometimes it can be a scary thing for other puppies. Some puppies can get nauseous on rides. So how do we make it a positive experience for all pups? This can make it difficult to even go to the vet, run errands, the groomer, and never mind long journeys. Learn more about how to create a positive experience for your puppy and an excellent travel companion. Why Are Some Puppies Afraid In the Car? While puppies may enjoy car rides, I am here to help you to understand why some puppies can become afraid of them. Let’s look at Classical Conditioning in real life. Your puppy comes home for the first time, their long journey from the breeder whether you picked him up, he was driven by private transport, the breeder brought him to you or he was flown by cargo to you. Now he is in a completely new environment, taken away from his littermates and his mother. The most likely second car ride will be to the veterinarian for his first exam. For some puppies, this may not be a big deal, but not all puppies are alike. He is in an unfamiliar place, handled by unfamiliar people and possibly other dogs at the vets office that possibly made him afraid. So the next time you go to go for a car ride, he now associates it with something fearful. We, inadvertently created this fear response, so how do we fix? Now we learn that our new puppy has associated the car with fear. Let’s take some yummy treats and just sit in the car for a minute. We can Counter Condition and make the car now enjoyable. There is a great seatbelt made by Kurgo . Kurgo also has a program named SAFE AGAIN that will assist in Seat Belts prevent your puppy from jumping around in the car which could cause an accident or if a car were to hit you while at a redlight, your puppy will most likely be injured. You ride with a seatbelt, children ride with a seatbelt, and so should your pup! A carrier is also another safe way to transport your puppy safely. A Kong toy can also be put in the carrier to create a positive association with the car and occupy your puppy while driving. A great carrier can be found at Diggs and use NAPLES25 for a discount! ONLY 16% of Dog Owners Restrain their Dogs During Travel, Even Though 86% Admit It is Dangerous!!! EASE HIS FEARS Once your puppy is distracted in the back seat, such as by eating, climb into the front seat and sit there for a while. Then get out, so that the puppy understands nothing bad happens when you’re with them in the car. Do this for a day. The next day is when you can start the car with your puppy in the back seat. Turn the engine off without going anywhere. Do it a few times during the day until your puppy enjoys the back seat. This conditioning can take time, be patient. TAKE SOME SHORT TRIPS You’re now ready to start backing the car to the end of the driveway. Just go that far, and stop. Do it a couple of times in a row, letting your puppy out once you get back. If they start whining or showing other signs of stress, you may be taking things too quickly. It can take a while to complete this step, but it’s always effective. Slowly but surely increase how long you spend in the car. Take a trip around the block, and then a trip to the park before going back home. Find somewhere your puppy will recognize and enjoy. The trip should be something positive so that they enjoy the experience and look forward to having it again. The biggest advice I give to my new puppy owners is take the puppy to the vet for no reason, get some love, yummy treats and go home. Here is an article on “How to Make Your Dog Love the car! FUN FEAR FREE RIDES Another way to make car trips easier is to do some crate training with it. Keep the puppy confined while the car is mobile. Loose animals can be a danger to themselves and the driver. Use a car barrier, a kennel, or a seat belt. Also, consider using a car accessory for dogs such as The Backseat Bridge. HANDLING PROBLEMS AND POSITIVE FUN Make sure to keep your pup on the back seat to avoid them getting hurt by airbags. There are lots of accidents caused by puppies and dogs getting underfoot and preventing drivers from using the brakes. By taking trips that your puppy will actually enjoy, you’ll slowly but surely alleviate their fears over car travel. With some persistence, you’ll have a puppy, adolescent dogs and adult dog who eagerly anticipates their next car ride. If you need help training your puppy for car ride click here to get in touch with our dog trainers!
By Allison Christian 16 Sep, 2019
In life, few things are more joyously dependable than a good dog, which is to say, all dogs! If you’re a dog owner, you know that the relationship you have with your dog is one of the most rewarding ones you can ever have. No matter what kind of day it’s been or what type of mood you’re in, your dog is always happy to see you and welcome you home. They may want a treat or two for their trouble, but the unconditional love and fierce loyalty they show us is more than worth it. You love to do everything and go everywhere with your dog, including the lake or swimming pool. Dogs love a dip in the water, and who doesn’t love to watch them doggie paddle? Even so, you’ll want to make sure that your dog is safe while going into the water. These tips on water safety for dogs can ensure that your four-legged friend remains safe while going for a swim. Know Your Dog To begin with, you are going to want to make sure that your dog is up to swimming in the first place. Different dog breeds have different degrees of capability in this regard. Some dogs which are good at swimming include Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Irish Water Spaniels, and English Setters. While dogs that are bad at swimming tend to be on the smaller side, so you probably shouldn’t chuck your Shih-Tzu or chihuahua in and expect them to swim like Michael Phelps. Regardless of the breed, you should never throw your dog in the water without their expecting it. Dog Obedience You also want to make sure that your dog is well trained and obedient. Whether your dog’s in trouble or you simply want to make sure that they get out when you say so, you need to make sure they understand and are ready to heed your commands. Check out our training services if needed! Be Attentive You’ll also want to be sure to be extremely attentive while your dog is in the pool. Treat them as you would a small child swimming in the pool. You need to constantly be on the lookout for any sign of your dog struggling and, should you detect trouble, get them out of the pool immediately. You also want to make sure that your dog does not drink any pool water, or water from lakes. The former will be full of chlorine, while both could be rife with bacteria and other contaminants which would not be healthy for your dog to ingest. Make sure to rinse off your dog completely when they come out of the water. Dog Vests When it comes to dog safety, dog vests can sometimes be a useful precaution. If you do invest in one, you’ll want to make sure that it fits snugly, and that you make sure that it remains snug throughout your dog’s time in the water. Make sure that the vest is free of any tears. With these tips, you’ll be able to ensure your dog enjoys going for a swim in a safe fashion.
By Allison Christian 14 Sep, 2019
Despite all our differences, few things unite us across borders and beliefs more than our beautiful beloved bark machines. Whether you own a tinyShih-Tzu or massive Great Dane or anything in between, the important thing is that you’re lucky enough to be a dog owner. Cute, friendly, dependable, loyal -- dogs really are man’s best friend and your relationship with your four-legged friend is bound to be one of the most rewarding in your entire life. You love your dog and so want to make sure it stays in good health during the long hot summer months. For as much as we all love fun in the sun, the heat that comes with it can be hard on our canine companions. That’s why you’ll want to heed the advice of the best dog trainer in Naples and apply these quick and easy tips for helping your dog stay cool during the long hot summer. A Matter of Timing When walking your dog during the summer months, timing is critical. To keep your dog cool, you’ll want to be sure to try and arrange walks then the sun isn’t directly overhead and when temperatures are cooler. One of the most important things to remember when it comes to protecting your dog from the summer sun is that it isn’t just the heat beating down on its back and body that can be difficult. You know how hot the pavement can get during the summer. Now imagine having to walk on that with bare feet. Dog foot pads and sizzling hot sidewalks don’t mix. If it’s extremely hot and you’re traveling over asphalt, cement sidewalks, or similar terrain, it may be best to just skip bringing your dog altogether. Ice Packs and Wet Towels If you do bring your dog, you’ll want to make sure that it can cool its paws. The best way to do this is to bring along ice packs and wet towels that you can lay down for it. In addition, those towels can be draped over its body to help it beat the heat that way. Take breaks, take it slow, and make sure that it has ample time to cool its paws. If it seems as if your dog is struggling, don’t force it to continue. Seek Out Shade You’ll also want to be sure to seek out some shade. The less direct sunlight that you and your dog have to experience on long walks, the better. Bring Water and Cool Treats Summertime walks can dehydrate your dog, and fast. You thus want to bring along cool water and a collapsible water dish so it can stay hydrated. You can also bring along refrigerated treats. It can thus be a good idea to invest in a thermos or other insulating container that can keep water or treats cool while you’re out walking. You love your dog and would hate for it not to get the exercise that it needs. That said, you also don’t want it to suffer in the scorching sun. With these tips, you and your dog can beat the heat together.
By Naples Top Dogs 24 Aug, 2019
Dog grooming is the one of the best parts of taking care of your puppy. Quality dog grooming equipment can allow your pet's grooming process to be quite a bit easier. Here's all the information you need to make your dog look beautiful which is given by Smart Dog Lover . Best Grooming Items There are several types of items that will help you wash your furry companion at home. You will be able to avoid expensive visits to the dog grooming salon with these helpful tips. • Brushes and combs: Untangling brushes, dead hair removal blades and undercoat rakes all help to remove and untangle hair, whether short or medium length. Steel needle brushes, on the other hand, are more suitable for dogs with a longer, thicker coat. • Shampoo: Oat conditioner shampoos help soothe dry skin and irritation while removing dirt and sebum that causes discomfort. For more severe skin conditions, such as allergies or fleas, there are medicated shampoos. • Claw cutters : Heavier spring-loaded claw cutters such as those with guillotine blades or cutting pliers are more powerful and more precise. They are perfect for large dogs as well as those of average size. Lighter ones such as scissor clippers are more beneficial for small dogs. Purchasing a quality pair would be a wise investment. Keep coagulating powder on hand to stop bleeding if you cut too close to the root of the claw by accident. • Grooming scissors : Grooming scissors are excellent for cutting and retouching. They are suitable for dogs that need to be cut regularly. In addition, they help keep the coat neat. • Electric clippers : Electric clippers are excellent for both regular and occasional clipping. They offer an even cut. Electromagnetic and pivot motor mowers are better for shorter, lighter coats. On the other hand, rotary motor models are generally more powerful and more suitable for heavier coats. • Ear Care Product: Although not often used, a quality ear cleaner can prevent irritation, infections and other ailments. This grooming step is very important for dogs with dangling ears. Soft cotton balls make it easy to clean your pet's ears before applying a cleaner or powder. Dog Grooming Tips • Elimination of dead hair: When grooming dogs that constantly lose their dead hair, use tools specifically designed for cleaning and removing undercoats such as blades. • Hair cut : Not all dogs need to be cut, but many breeds (poodles, for example) will benefit from regular cuts. • Treats: Keep treats handy during claw pruning or bathing. They will make grooming more enjoyable for you and your pet; • Start at a young age: Begin grooming your dog at an early age to get used to the process. Many animals will appreciate the time of grooming, which will make the process easier. Good grooming and proper techniques contribute to the happiness and health of your pet. Know what tools are right for your dog's special needs so that home grooming is easy and affordable.
More Posts
Share by: