Nuisance barking (excessive, ongoing barking) is a real pain for your neighbors, and honestly, it’s also not great for your dog. Let’s unpack that a bit.
In one sense, barking is fun! Most dogs seem to enjoy barking. It’s a way for them to relieve the angst they’re feeling in the moment, whether that’s excitement, nervousness or something else. It’s a normal, natural behavior that’s deeply instinctual.
The problem isn’t barking; the problem is excessive barking.
When barking moves into the realm of excessive, it’s a good sign that the dog has unmet needs. It’s a sign that the dog has some pent up energy to release but they lack an appropriate outlet, so they bark, and they bark, and they bark. The dog typically has some angst, frustration and inner tension and they’re channeling that energy into the only outlet they have.
Owners often feel frustrated that the dog has “so many options” (toys to play with, room to run, etc.) and yet still chooses to bark, bark, bark. The missing piece is engagement—your dog needs YOU to help them channel that energy into a healthier, more appropriate outlet.
If your dog is barking excessively, here’s what to do about it:
Make sure your dog’s physical needs are met. This alone won’t resolve the issue, but you also can’t ignore it. Daily structured walks are outrageously helpful because they provide both physical and mental stimulation. They also give your dog a chance to be out and about, which is mentally stimulating in and of itself. If your dog rarely leaves your house and yard, then that’s part of the problem. Dogs need to get out and explore the world! Structured walking will be part of the solution. Consult a trainer for help if your dog’s leash behavior is challenging.
Engage your dog during times when he’s most likely to bark. For example, if your dog’s barking episodes seem to occur when he’s in the yard by himself, then it’s time to start going outside with him and engaging with him instead of leaving him to entertain himself. Some dogs entertain themselves just fine and others need more engagement. Engagement can look like fetch, frisbee, flirt pole, chase, tug, practicing obedience, agility, or whatever you and your dog like to do together.
Be strategic. For example, if your dog barks excessively at your front window all day, how can you keep your dog away from the front window? Whenever possible, use your dog’s skills (like the place command) instead of simply blocking access. Your dog is lacking engagement and one way to engage their brain is by using their training and skills!
Say no. After you’ve implemented all of the above suggestions, if you still find that excessive barking is an issue, then barking has likely become a habit and your dog will need your help to break it. This is not at all unusual. To help your dog break the habit, you’ll have to find a way to say no that’s meaningful to your dog and then consistently say no when your dog starts barking. It’s important to implement all of the above suggestions *before* you start saying no because it’s unfair to correct the barking if your dog’s needs aren’t being met. Remember, excessive barking is a sign that your dog has some unmet needs! Meet those needs first, and if barking is still an issue, now it’s appropriate to correct it.
