Barking is as normal to most dogs as breathing. They use these vocalizations to express many emotions, depending on the situation. They might be trying to tell you they need to go outside to do their business, or perhaps they hear someone at the door. While some breeds are naturally quieter than others, and some dogs (like people) are quiet-natured, the bottom line is you can’t expect a dog never to bark.
Excessive barking, however, can signal that your dog is in some form of distress. Figuring out what’s causing the constant barking is the first step to finding a solution.
Top Reasons a Dog Might Bark Excessively
Territorialism
Any animal or person coming into a space a dog considers their territory is the number one reason dogs bark and bark and bark. Dogs feel possessive of their area and pack and want to protect it. This territory could be their home, their yard, their car, or even their bed.
Fear
Dogs often bark when they’re startled or feel afraid. This can happen anywhere and is more common outside of the home for some dogs. Fireworks and other loud noises can also prompt howls, nervous barks, and other fear responses.
A Greeting or a Signal it’s Time to Play
We’ve all come home to a happy dog who barks and does zoomies around the room. It’s a joyful reunion and signals that it’s time to play. These happy barks are usually accompanied by tail wagging and jumping up to get closer to you.
Loneliness or Boredom
When you bring a dog home, you become its pack. Dogs left alone for long periods can become sad and bored and bark to show their displeasure. A dog that digs, barks excessively, chases its tail, chews on furniture, and unrolls/shreds toilet paper are all tell-tale signs of boredom.
Separation Anxiety
For some dogs, being left by their owner isn’t just a sad event; it causes acute anxiety. Dogs barking excessively due to separation anxiety often pace, become destructive, have accidents in the house, and show signs of depression-like lethargy and loss of appetite. If your dog shows signs of separation anxiety, there are steps you can take. Read more here.
Compulsive Barking
These barkers just like the sound of their voice and want to share it with the world. Compulsive barking is often accompanied by other annoying behaviors such as running in circles or along a fence line.
Proven Ways to Help Curb Excessive Barking
Even if your pup barks until they’re hoarse, there are proven ways to overcome excessive barking. With consistency and work, things should quiet down over time with these tactics.
Never Join in by Yelling
The dog thinks you’re barking loudly, too, and joining in on the fun. Never discipline a bark with a bark of your own. Speak in a calm but firm tone when asking your dog to stop.
Train Your Dog to Understand the Word “Quiet”
Dogs understand a lot, but “shut up” is a sophisticated phrase. Instead, teach them the command “quiet” and reward them when they fall silent after hearing it.
Simply Ignore It
Don’t pay attention to a dog barking solely for attention. It’s a revolving door of enabling the behavior. Once you ignore their barking, your pup will realize his ploy isn’t working. Only praise them when they quiet down.
Desensitize Your Dog to the Stimulus
If your dog barks at squirrels in the backyard, give them a quiet command and reward them only when they stop barking.
Keep Your Dog Tired
Getting sufficient exercise and playtime is critical in teaching a dog to be quiet. Take a nice long walk together before you head out to work. Unwind with a trip to the dog park. Play fetch throughout the day. Keeping your dog happy and tired from playtime is the best way to curb excessive barking.
If All Else Fails, Hire a Professional Dog Trainer
If your efforts prove unsuccessful, it might be time to turn over the task to a pro. Your vet can guide you toward qualified trainers. Reaching out to a certified dog trainer can help your dog learn new behaviors and help you enjoy more peace and quiet.
Seek the Professional Advice of Your Vet if You Suspect a Medical Issue
For instance, if your dog barks incessantly to go out because it can’t hold its bladder, there could be a medical issue behind the noise. Schedule an appointment with Jacksonville Community Pet Clinic for a checkup. One of our experienced veterinarians can spot problems that might be the underlying cause of excessive barking and treat them, giving you and your dog relief.
