Dogs become so beloved that people consider them members of their families when they are adopted. In fact, sometimes, your dogs are your only family. Due to a lack of proper training, the dog may be unwelcoming to outsiders. We have therefore provided some tips on how you can train your dog not to bark at strangers in this article. If you fail to train your dog, you may end up in legal trouble and the animal may have to be put down. If the dog does not bite strangers, you can still get into trouble for barking at them. So, let’s curb the problem now before it gets out of hand.
What Makes Dogs Bark at Strangers?
Even humans are apprehensive about meeting new people and your dog won’t find it any easier as well. Nevertheless, humans seldom yell or scream at strangers. So why do dogs do the same? Usually your dog barks constantly at guests for two reasons.
- Defending a territory
- Alarming a person
In the first place, dogs behave territorially. Therefore, any strangers will cause them to feel threatened and fearful. This will make them bark to scare them off and to alert other dogs within their territory. As for dogs barking at strangers, they usually do so because they’re fearful. This is not primarily a defensive reaction. The dogs bark at strangers wherever they may be, not necessarily in their territory. This is particularly prevalent in dogs who don’t have much socialization. So, how do you prevent your dog from barking at strangers?
Barking triggers should be removed
One way to stop your dog from barking is to avoid any encounters with strangers. If your dog spends most of the day indoors, use curtains and blinds to block outside views. You could also put up an opaque wall so that the dog cannot see passers-by or visitors if the dog stays outside. This method is called the preventive approach. Unfortunately, though this approach is straightforward, its effects aren’t permanent. Obviously, even after watching a stranger, the dog will react similarly next time.
The “Quiet” command should be taught to your dog
A dog trained in this way is taught that when someone comes to the door, it’s okay to bark until you say “quiet”. If the dog barks four times, then calmly say “quiet.” At the same time, gently close the muzzle of the dog in your hands. Finally, repeat “quiet.” Once more. When the dog has been released from the window or door, give it a treat and call it away. In fact, the dog should be taught this technique whenever it barks at strangers. After a few repetitions, you can hold the muzzle of the dog without holding the commands. Moreover, gradually extend the time between commands and rewards.
When a stranger approaches the dog, distract the dog
In this method, you scan your dog’s body language for signs the dog might bark. You might notice his ears pricked, his walking pace changed, or his hackles raised before the dog barks. This is a sign that you need to distract the animal before it starts barking. Some of the best treats to give are slices of cooked chicken, hotdogs, or cheese. You may want to walk past the person who may have triggered the barking while holding the treat in front of the dog’s nose. Also, let the dog sit and eat as the stranger passes by.
Buy Calming Dog Beds
Using calming dog beds can reduce anxiety and stress in your pet by making them more comfortable. Place the dog bed in an area where your pet is comfortable and where it can spend its private time. Making your dog comfortable at your house reduces the amount of stress he experiences.
Make sure your dog is tired
The best dogs are those who are getting enough physical and mental exercise every day. A tired dog is a great dog, and one that is less likely to bark out of frustration or boredom. You may want to take your dog out several times a day for long walks as well as to play with interactive dog toys and chase the ball, depending on their breed, age, and health.
Don’t pay attention to the barking
Do not talk to, touch, or even look at your dog if you believe they are barking to get your attention. By paying attention to them, even just asking them to stop, you are rewarding them for being noisy. Make sure you reward them rapidly when they are quiet, even to pause for a moment. Timing is important, so be sure to reward swiftly when they are quiet to avoid confusing them and rewarding them for barking.
Training collars are useful
There is no need to use a device before using all possible social methods to train your dog. In actuality, a dog collar is more of a punishment than a reward. There are two types of bark begone collars available. One works automatically, while the other involves using a remote control unit to distract the dog from barking. A dog’s collar emits a dull vibration or ultrasound upon barking, and this stops the animal from barking. If the dog learns that barking leads to an unpleasant experience, then it will stop doing it in the future.
Get Your Dog Trained by a Professional
In addition, if you have no idea how to teach your dog not to bark at strangers, you can seek the assistance of a professional dog trainer. A professional trainer can advise you on what method will stop your dog from barking at people who are strangers. After all, a pro will always find a way out. Therefore, go for home remedies whenever possible, but if they do not work, then consult a professional dog trainer.
One final thought
The idea of having a dog is a wonderful concept, but keeping a well-trained and socialized dog is even better. In order to prevent legal disputes with strangers or neighbours, start training your dog today. In addition to treating your dog, you can use deterrent devices to discourage your furry friend. It is always a good idea to seek help from a professional dog trainer if your dog fails to improve after trying out on your own.
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