Once you discover that your dog is barking it’s important that you find out what the problem is and how you can resolve it. Left unresolved you could face complaints or eviction from rented property.
The first thing to do is to establish why your dog is barking so you can decide on the best course of action.
Pet Sitters Ireland provide Pet Sitting and Dog Walking Services across all of the Republic of Ireland for all types of animals. Call us 1800 303010 or 087 9898042 or Contact Us for more information.
Why Is Your Dog Barking?
#1. They Are Bored
If your dog is alone for long periods of time, then they could be barking because they are bored and are looking for attention. It’s not uncommon for a dog to bark for no reason other than they are wanting to get the attention of their owner.
Both my dogs bark when they want something from me – usually they are just bored and looking to play (sometimes with each other).
#2. They Are Anxious
Dogs can often become anxious when they are left alone. If they are barking along with being restless and pacing, it’s often a sign that they have separation anxiety.
Dogs will also often bark when they are scared.
#3. Triggered by A Noise/Activity
Your dog could be triggered to start barking by unfamiliar noises.
If there is construction work happening in the area it could start them barking. Or maybe if a new dog has moved into the area and is barking it could cause them to bark.
My dogs both bark when the bin collection happens or there is any type of construction work going on.
#5. They Are Territorial
Many dogs are quite protective of their own space. If they see another dog out the window they may bark to protect their territory.
If they are an outside dog they might bark when the postman arrives or when people approach the house.
What to Do When Your Dog Barks at Everything?
If you find your dog barking all the time, then here are a few things you can do to stop the barking and make sure your dog is more relaxed.
#1. Increase Their Exercise
A tired dog is a quiet dog!
If your dog is not getting enough exercise they will be bored, and this leads to barking. Increasing their daily exercise will make sure that they are tired, and that they rest when you are away from the home.
Depending on the breed this might mean 2 long walks morning and evening, with a midday walk also.
When you are deciding on which breed of dog to get it’s important to consider the amount of exercise the breed will need and how much time you can commit to walking them.
#2. Hire A Dog Walker
If your dog barks at everything while you are at work, then you probably need to break the day up for them with a Dog Walker.
Most people can’t get home from work during the day and so will opt to have someone come and break the day up for their dog with a walk.
Your dog has something to look forward to and it also means they are getting much-needed exercise to help them relax for the afternoon after their morning walk.
You might also enjoy reading: Why Hire A Dog Walker?
#3. Interactive Toys
Interactive toys can be a great way to keep your dog occupied during the day. A Kong stuffed with something tasty can make sure your dog is active throughout the day and doesn’t get bored.
It can also be good to make it something nice that they only get when you are gone for the day so that they look forward to it.
The tastier the better when it comes to treats!
#4. A Dog Trainer
A dog trainer can often help if you are struggling to get your dog into a new routine. Perhaps your dog already had the ingrained habit of barking when they came to you and you need to break that habit.
#5. Change Their Environment
A change of environment can help. If you know that your dog barks at people passing the house then it’s best not to leave them in the room with access to the window to look out of.
A kitchen area might be better and more calming for them. Often a darker room can also be more calming too.
It can also be a good idea to leave a TV or radio on, so it masks any outside noises that might be causing them to bark.
#6. Bring Your Dog Inside
If your dog is outside they may be barking in response to noises outside. Often if you bring them into the home then they will stop barking.
It could be a neighbour’s dog, child, construction work etc that is annoying them and simply by removing them from that distraction will often resolve the issue.
#7. Build Up the Time They Are Alone
If your dog has been barking a lot, then you might need to take some time to re train them.
Leaving them for short periods of time and building up the time gradually, along with rewarding them for good behaviour will help.
Top Tips To Stop Your Dog Barking
- Don’t shout at your dog to stop barking (or anything they are doing). Loud noises will only encourage them to bark more.
- Speak calmly and firmly and used reward-based training to help switch around their behaviour.
- Nip the behaviour in the bud as soon as possible before it becomes ingrained and harder to stop.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help!
To Find Out More About How We Can Take Care Of Your Dog When You Are Out At Work Or Busy Call us on 1800 303010 or 087 9898042 or Contact Us for more information.
