How to Stop Dogs Barking

A dog will bark for many different reasons. Dogs may bark to warn you that a stranger is approaching or an intruder is breaking into your home. Dogs that are in pain or frightened will also bark. A dog may bark to intimidate you or your family members, or as a way to get your attention.

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Whatever the reason, we all agree that it can be very annoying and seek 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. Thankfully, it is possible to stop dogs barking without just cause.

Teaching a dog the appropriate times for him to bark is the most effective way to stop dog barking. A number of options are available, the best being the reward/reprimand technique. This technique is successful and humane.

Some dog owners try to circumvent obedience training with the use of an electronic or bark collar. The collar is worn by the dog, which is then activated when he starts to bark. When the bark collar gives off a small electronic shock, the dog is taken by surprise. Over time, dogs begin to connect the unpleasant experience with their barking so they stop barking. It is my opinion that this is a cruel and inhumane method to stop dogs barking.

Electronic collars should not be used for a variety of reasons, including the fact that some dogs do not associate their barking with the discomfort from the shock. They become accustomed to the electronic shocks and keep on 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.

An electronic collar that is set to the correct shock level shouldn't harm a dog, however many people believe that they can still be dispiriting to dogs. It is for this reason that these people choose to use citronella collars, which work on the same principle as electronic collars. Citronella collars produce a mist when dogs bark. Most dogs hate the smell. Gradually, dogs begin to connect the foul aroma with their barking and stop barking so they don't have to suffer the smell. They are probably just about as successful as electronic collars.

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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. It should be noted that obedience training is effective for solving and preventing most dog behavior problems. It also helps with other dog behavior problems.

Surgery is the most drastic and, in my opinion, barbaric option to stop dogs barking. In order to stop dogs from barking, a portion of the larynx is removed. Sometimes, the dog's ability to bark returns, making the surgery a waste of time and money. Fortunately, the surgical approach to stop dogs barking is opposed by most vets.

In closing, I hope we have managed to convince you that the most effective way to stop dogs barking is with good quality obedience training. You should bear in mind that, if your dogs stops barking by using a barking collar, he will also not alert you to an intruder in your house. A dog that has been given good obedience training will understand the appropriate times to bark and will also defend your family.

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