Why Dogs Bark and How You Can Stop Excessive Barking

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Each year, police departments report more and more incidents involving complaints about barking dogs. Some of these dreaded neighborhood canines bark because they are lonely, some bark to guard territory, some from fear, and some because they like the sound of their own barking!

If you would like to be part of the solution and get a little peace and quiet, you're not alone.

Lonely Barkers

When left alone, especially outdoors, some dogs will become very vocal and whine, bark, or howl. This is, if you consider it logically, reasonable behavior. Dogs are social animals, and being isolated from their families or packs is very stressful to them.

Because dogs cannot understand that we have to go to work or school and leave them alone for long periods, it is often helpful to get another pet as a companion for the dog, or to hire a dog walker or take the dog to doggy day care a few times each week.

Tough Guys

Some dogs bark at everything that moves (or they think might move, or they hear moving...) This kind of overzealous territorial instinct is common, but annoying.

Your best bet is to bring the dog indoors when you're not home. If you confine him in a crate in a quiet room, with a radio playing, you will cut down on his territorial-induced stress.

Bored Dogs are Noisy Dogs

Bored dogs are creative dogs who will find something interesting to do, and there's a better than even chance you won't like what they come up with.

Bored dogs chew, dig, and bark. Mental stimulation is the answer for this type of dog - lots of obedience training, "stupid pet tricks", and other duties will take the edge of the boredom off and bring a little peace and quiet.

All types of excessive barkers can benefit from exercise and long walks. Good quality chew toys are also helpful for canine stress-relief.

Whatever type of barking dog you are dealing with, take the problem seriously. Your sanity, your dog's well-being, and your neighborhood reputation are all at stake.