West Lothian Council delivers

Dog Warden Service - my dog has a barking problem - what can I do?

 

Barking is a common form of dog behaviour and all dogs will bark from time to time. Barking when the door bell rings, or when the Postman comes is perfectly acceptable. However, barking can escalate and become a noise nuisance. Common examples of nuisance barking are: dogs barking at every noise they hear, showing lack of control i.e. barking long after the trigger has gone.

What causes barking?

• Insecurity
• Being left alone too long 
• Loneliness
• Bored or frustration
• Attention seeking
• Area being kept in too small
• Defending territory
• Dog gets enjoyment from it
• Medical problems
  

Training

It is important from a young age to train your dog so that it does not bark at everything that moves.  Dogs should become accustomed to everyday noises and learn to show self control. Good training, combined with affection and companionship, should mean that your dog will not develop bad habits. Good tips are: 

1. Socialise your dog from a young age. This allows them to develop confidence to face different situations and not to be territorial.
2. Most dogs do not want to be left 'home alone'. Go out for short periods so that your dog can gradually get used to being away from you.
3. If your dog is very upset at being left, even for a short time, you can start by putting him/her in another room for a few minutes at a time. Do not return to him/her until he/she is quiet. When you return praise him/her calmly for being good.
4. Do not make a big fuss when you leave the dog as this will worry it and draw attention to the fact you are leaving.
5. Dogs left all day in the garden often bark at the things they can see passing, such as cats and people. If you must leave the dog outside make sure he cannot see things beyond his/her enclosure that may make him/her bark.
6. Leave the radio or television on. This can help dull outside noises which can act as triggers.
7. Record your own voice and leave playing while you are out.
8. Ensure your dog has a comfortable bed where he can feel safe. Give your dog an old item of your clothing to sleep on. Make sure it has been worn and has your scent on it.
9. Special 'boredom breaker' toys are available from most pet shops which you can stuff with food or treats to keep your dog occupied while you're away.
10. Make sure he/she is fed and exercised before you leave them. Always leave plenty of fresh water.
11. Introduce your dog to people they might otherwise think of as intruders, such as postman and neighbours.
12. Have dog checked over by vet to rule out any medical problems.
13. Getting a second dog for company may help or it may make the problem worse i.e. one dog barking can trigger the second dog. Give serious thought to whether this is the right solution and if you can afford the time and money involved.
14. If your dog barks at the same time every day, like when people in the house are going to work or school, try to keep it busy at that time. For example take the dog for a walk.
15. Try to keep your dog calm. If it barks when it's excited, don't play with it at any anti-social times like very late at night.
16. See if you can get a friend or relative to look after your dog when you go out, or take it with you.
17. If you are still experiencing problems, seek advice from a professional animal behaviourist.

Do not blame the dog -  you need to change your lifestyle/routine to solve problem.

Updated 20/10/11