Some people think
it is normal for dogs to bark consistently. It isn't! Barking dogs are a
nuisance and are not conducive to good neighborly relations. Constant
barking usually means the dog is bored, lonely, frustrated or ill.
Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise and companionship and has a
comfortable, safe and enclosed place to sleep.
Obedience training can help stop dogs barking, but if previous attempts
have failed, there are established services available that will provide
professional advice on preventing behavioral problems such as barking. See
your veterinarian for advice.
Kennel
Is its
kennel waterproof, comfortable and kept clean at all times? Is it the
correct size for your dog? A dog's kennel is a home and should be
inviting and comfortable.
Comfort
Does your
dog have access to bedding, food, water and familiar tools of amusement?
If your dog is kept inside, does it have access to the outside when you
are absent?
Health
Does your
dog have a well balanced diet? Is it kept free of fleas and worms? Is
the area where the dog is housed kept clean, free of dog stool and
uneaten food, thereby minimizing flies and the spread of disease? Is
your dog receiving regular health checks with your local veterinarian?
Feeding
A simple
change to the feeding time of your dog is often worth a try to reduce
barking - if you normally feed your dog at night and it tends to bark in
the mornings when you leave your home, try changing the feeding pattern
to mornings. Dogs that have a full stomach tend to lie down contentedly
to rest or sleep rather than run around barking.
Attention to
your dog
Establish
a routine so that the dog receives attention when you are at home. Leave
the dog alone for short periods at first then gradually increase the
time to the maximum period it will regularly spend on its own. If there
have been changes in the dog's life, instead of ignoring the dog,
establish a new routine that includes exercise, training and play.
Dog Obedience
In nearly
all cases this is a good way of providing training, exercise and an
outing for both the dog and owner. Obedience training also allows the
opportunity of socialization with other dogs and people. Dogs and their
owners can only benefit from this activity.
Exercise
Exercise
alone will not stop a dog from barking, but may provide an active
release for its energy. Exercise should be varied, with 15 - 20 minutes
daily spent walking, training and playing with the dog. If the dog is to
be left alone all day, it is preferable to exercise it before leaving
for work.
Professional
Assistance
Behavioral
therapy is available, with or without specialized training, to correct
dog behavior problems. |
