Barking

Most owners welcome the security a barking dog brings to the home. A barking dog highlights the fact a visitor has arrived, welcome or unwelcome. However, some dogs can get into a habit of barking continually and can cause a nuisance and upset neighbors.

There are a couple of ways to control this behavior:

• Each time your dog barks at a visitor, praise him for telling you and then instruct him to be quiet.

•  When he has calmed down and stopped barking, reward him with a small tidbit.

•  If your pet then loses concentration and barks again, raise your voice to strengthen your command.

•  Praise him once again when he stops barking.

•  Remember – always be consistent! Never tell your dog off for barking, but praise him when obeying your instruction to be quiet.

It is also a good idea to make receiving visitor’s a pleasurable experience and not a threat.