How to Stop Dogs Barking
By Sandra Scott
There are a number reasons for dog barking. Your dog may begin to bark when a stranger approaches or if your house is on fire. Other causes of dog barking are pain and fear. A dog may bark to intimidate you or your family members, or as a way to get your attention.
For a really excellent dog training manual to stop dogs barking, see: How to Stop Dogs Barking
Whatever the reason, we all agree that it can be very aggravating and look for ways to stop dogs barking. It is not unheard of for dog owners who have dogs that constantly bark to be reported to the police for disturbing the peace. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to stop dogs barking for no good reason.
The best way to stop dogs barking is to train your dog when it is appropriate for him to bark. There are several options but the best technique is the proven reward/reprimand method. This technique is successful and humane.
Some dog owners try to avoid this training option by using an electronic collar, also called a bark collar. When a dog barks, the collar around his neck is activated. Your dog will be startled by the small electric shock being produced by the collar. Over time, dogs begin to connect the unpleasant experience with their barking so they stop barking. I believe that electronic collars are an inhumane method to stop dogs from barking.
There are many reasons why electronic collars should never be used, the least of which is that some dogs don’t associate the discomfort from the shock with their barking. They develop a tolerance for the electronic shocks and continue barking. In order for the collar to be effective, the prongs must touch the skin which may not happen if a dog has a thick coat. As well, there are few examples where simply using an electronic collar will stop dog barking. Usually, optimal results are obtained by including dog obedience training.
There are some people who believe that electronic bark collars can be discouraging to dogs. Because of this, some people use citronella collars which operate in a similar way to electronic collars. Citronella collars produce a mist when dogs bark. The smell is disliked by most dogs. Eventually, dogs realize that the revolting aroma is produced when they bark, so they stop barking to prevent the smell. They are probably just about as successful as electronic collars.
Just a reminder, if you’re looking for a super free site that will help you with your dog behavior problems, take a look at: How to Stop Dogs Barking
If used correctly, electronic collars can be useful training tools, however most vets and dog trainers agree that they are no replacement for quality dog obedience training. In addition, obedience training does more than simply stop dogs barking. It also helps with other dog behavior problems.
Surgery to stop dog barking is a drastic and, in my opinion, barbaric option. To stop dogs barking, tissue is extracted from the larynx. It is not unheard of for the dog’s bark to return, voiding the surgery. Thankfully, most vets oppose the surgical method to stop dogs barking.
In conclusion, I hope we have convinced you that obedience training is the best way to stop dogs barking. You need to know that a dog that is trained to stop barking with an electronic collar will not bark when your house is on fire. With the correct obedience training, your dog will protect your family but will also know when it is appropriate to bark.
I hope you found this article useful. I also have a review of a great dog training product that you should check out here: Dove Cresswell’s Puppy Training & Dog Training Online
