The Barking Dog
Many dogs bark more frequently than their owners would like. In some cases barking is very persistent because it's easy for the dog to do and is even self-rewarding. Some dogs have been accidentally trained to be persistent barkers because they've learned that if they bark long enough or loud enough, eventually they'll get what they want.

You won't be able to eliminate barking, because it's normal for dogs to bark, but with many barkers the problem can be reduced to a more tolerable level.

The first step in managing a barking problem is to determine the cause. Obviously barking is an attempt to communicate, but what is your dog trying to say? Here are some of the common reasons for barking and some of the things you can try to alleviate the problem:

Separation anxiety: This barking (which only occurs in the owner's absence and is often accompanied by destructive behavior and housesoiling) is the dog's way of telling you that he is anxious about your leaving him. It is fairly common in dogs who have experienced a change in their surroundings or routine. With some work these anxious animals can usually be trained to be more comfortable and calm in the owner's absence. The Gaines booklet, "The Dog Who Cannot Be Left Alone", outlines a program for treating separation anxiety, or you may want to consult a qualified animal behaviorist for assistance.

Fear: Dogs may bark as a response to things that frighten them, often noises such as thunderstorms, firecrackers, garbage trucks, etc. If repeatedly frightened in the yard, they may bark (usually with ears back and tail down) even in the absence of the sound because the yard itself has become a scary place to be. Try a program of desensitization and counter conditioning such as suggested in the booklet, "Fear of Thunder & Other Loud Noises".

Territorial/Protective Behavior: Dogs may bark to warn away those they consider intruders in or near their territory, and they keep doing it because it's so successful - I barked, the other dog left, I barked, the bicyclist left, I barked, the delivery person left, et cetera. With the help of a variety of friends whom your dog would normally bark at, you can set up a program of gradually turning intruders into friends by rewarding your dog for remaining quiet as the person approaches nearer (using bits of a really special food). The idea is to teach your dog to anticipate that people approaching are a cue that great treats will follow if she stays quiet. Indoor barking at visitors can be discouraged by a program of distraction (give him a command like 'sit" and reward with lots of treats and attention when he's quiet).

Boredom and Loneliness: Dogs are intelligent and social creatures, and barking may be a reaction to be isolated. The best cures are spending more time with your dog and giving her the mental and physical exercise she needs to feel content when you can't be around. Leaving her attractive objects like chew toys, large rubber balls, or toys with food stuffed inside may help, but a long, vigorous walk or game of fetch followed by a review of obedience routines may do more to keep her happy when you leave.

There's no quick fix for barking, and a "bark collar" should never be used unless suggested by a qualified animal behaviorist. They can make the problem worse when used on a dog who is barking due to separation anxiety or other types of fearful behavior.

Copyright 1994 and 1997 by Suzanne Hetts, PhD, Denver Dumb Friends League and Scott Line, DVM, PhD Animal Humane Society. If this material is reproduced, please credit the Denver Dumb Friends League and the Animal Humane Society.