All dogs bark from time to time, but continuous dog barking or barking that occurs at inappropriate times is a problem. Excessive barking is usually a symptom of boredom, under-stimulation, aggression, or fear. Excessive barking is not only a symptom that there's something not right with your dog, but it can get rather annoying to those who have to listen to it.
The consequences of constant barking are twofold. If your dog is barking for a valid reason and you ignore it, it could be dangerous for your dog. On the other hand, if your dog has developed the habit of excessive barking out of boredom and you ignore it, it will likely become very stressful for you, and perhaps even for your neighbors.
The first thing you need to do is make sure your dog is not hurt, sick, hungry, or scared. If not, then think about how much time you've been spending with him. He could very well just be bored or missing your attention. Check your pet's surroundings carefully to make sure that's not the problem. Look for inadequate or damaged shelter, bedding that is missing, torn, or uncomfortable, or contamination of or problems with their food or water.
Environmental factors are often temporary, but can still be important. Watch for thunderstorms or weather that may be scaring your dog, unusual activity near your house (construction, for example), or strange animals in the area. More permanent factors include neighboring animals, or taunting children.
To stop dog barking, changes may have to be made. If you're unsure what the problem is, try changing one thing at a time.
- Take your pet to the vet right away if you think there is a physical cause for his barking, or if there's no obvious cause that you can find.
- Though there's not much you can do about environmental factors, try to soothe and reassure your dog as much as
you can. He will likely either become accustomed to the distraction, or the problem with resolve itself with time. Consider moving your outdoor pet away from the distraction if you can.
- Fix any problems you find with your pet's bedding, shelter, or food or water.
- Spend as much time with your dog as you can. Perhaps even adopt or buy another dog to keep him company. When you do have to leave him alone, try leaving a radio or TV on so it's not so quiet in the house. Also, make sure there are plenty of toys well within his reach.
- If your dog is barking out of habit, distract him as soon as he starts barking. Praise him lavishly when he is quiet, but don't give in to him when he is not. Be firm with him, but soothe him and do what you can to stop his barking. Remember, the longer he's had this habit, the longer it will take you break it.
Your veterinarian will make sure there's no physical reason for the dog barking, and may be able to advise you on alternative ways to stop the barking. If your dog is barking purely out of habit, a qualified pet trainer might be the perfect solution to the problem.
