Information on Training Puppies Not to Bark
- As you get to know your puppy, learn to identify her barks. Playful barks are happy and sharp, like a child tugging on her mother's apron. But there is another type of bark that you should eliminate before concluding that your puppy is seeking attention. If your puppy feels anxious, she will bark a warning and even run toward the suspected threat or noise. In such a case, getting near your puppy and petting her will restore her sense of security. Use the command, "No bark" softly until your puppy stops barking, then pick her up and reward her with a treat.
- If your puppy feels hunger, thirst or pain he will bark to communicate his distress. By establishing a fixed feeding routine, you can be sure that your puppy will not be hungry. It's best to feed your puppy twice a day and keep his drinking bowl filled to the brim as he learns to lap liquids.
- Taking your puppy for walks and spending quality playtime together will leave your puppy feeling happy and tired. Your puppy will then be more likely to settle quietly at your side as you work, without barking for attention.
- When your puppy wants attention, he will approach you and try to make eye contact. If you are reading, working on your computer, or generally failing to notice him, your puppy will start to bark. At this point, avoid rewarding your puppy with signs of affection. Look at him and sternly say, "No bark." Your puppy is likely to bark again. Repeat the training command once more and maintain eye contact a little longer. Once you look away and your puppy does not bark, you can reward him. Don't pick him up or stop working; instead, give him a chew stick or toy to play with at your side as you continue to work.
- If your puppy continues to bark incessantly (and you have confirmed that she is not feeling pain or distress), leave her alone in the room for a minute. Your puppy is likely to bark, scratch the door and whine. When you return, use the training command "No bark." Then play with your puppy before leaving again. Keep coming in and out of the room and repeat the training command. When your puppy stays quiet for the duration of your absence reward her lavishly with love and treats.
- Petting your puppy occasionally will keep him feeling loved.puppy image by Alex White from Fotolia.com
Petting and hugging your puppy regularly will not only make him feel loved but teach him to accept such tokens of affection calmly. If your puppy settles quietly beside you as you work, pet him occasionally, then return to work. Your puppy will feel safe and loved even when your attention is concentrated elsewhere. - As with all dog training, consistency will win the day. Don't expect your puppy to learn overnight. And don't be disappointed if he has good days and bad days. Make sure you always adopt the same attitude, use the same training command, and remain calm and loving. Your puppy will learn to trust and obey you, and will grow into a well-mannered dog.
Identify the Type of Bark
A Puppy Barks for Attention
A Tired Puppy Barks Less
A Puppy Can Learn to Entertain Himself
Leave Your Puppy Alone
Be Affectionate All the Time
Be Consistent
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