BARKING BAD

52 WHY DOGS BARK AT EACH OTHER?

Most dogs bark but excessive barking can be frustrating especially when directed at other dogs. There are many reasons why they do and learning to identify the reason is the key to helping you come up with a training plan. Some breeds bark more than others, such as working dogs and guard dogs, so check with the Kennel Club to see if your breed is naturally more vocal and remember, all dogs are individual and may not respond to training

We explore some of the reasons and give tips to help combat the problem.

Barking is a natural way for dogs to communicate with or attract another dogs attention. A friendly bark with a wagging tail and an excitable, relaxed posture is most likely just a greeting. They are sociable animals and like humans, as long as there’s no aggression, they will respond well.

When the barking is non-stop and relentless, it becomes a bigger problem. Couple this with lead pulling and it can be distressing not just for you, but for your pooch as well. Aggressive barking usually stems from a previous bad experience or trauma as a pup, or anxiety. We recommend taking your dog to a fully qualified dog behavioural therapist.

Dogs barking at other dogs walking by the garden, or barking from inside looking out of the window, is usually territorial. Try to keep your dog occupied by playing with them or distracting them from the window. A bored or lonely dog is most likely to bark. If you work and leave your pooch at home, consider a certified dog walker who will keep your dog company and walk them through the day.

Whilst on a lead, the sheer frustration of being restrained when they see a dog across the road, can cause them to bark. If it’s not aggressive they probably just want to say hi, our ‘lead pulling’ article ( page 24) explains how to train your pup to stop pulling; this can be a useful tool, as they will become accustomed to sitting on your command. A sitting, barking dog is less intimidating than a standing, pulling, barking one.

Your dog may have trouble understanding or coping with a new situation, which can cause fear, leading to excessive barking. To combat this on walks, always ensure you have dog treats with you. If your pooch starts barking at another, stand in between both to block their view, and if your dog sits and is quiet, praise your pooch and reward with a treat. They will soon learn that seeing another dog and not reacting means a tasty morsel.

As with all training, this can take time. Be patient and always make a fuss and reward your dog for doing the right thing. Don’t be reactive, pulling your dog back and shouting; remember, a calm human makes for a calm dog. If all else fails, just walk in the opposite direction, putting space between your dog and the other.

You must be in control, permitting your pooch to constantly stop and dictate the pace. Pulling and sniffing allows your dog to think they are the one directing the walk, encourage them to stay close, without pulling so you are the one commanding the situation.

We would always recommend you consult a professional if these tips aren’t helping. Your vet is a great place to start; they will be able to put you in touch with the right person for the job. We hope this helps and remember, dogs, just like humans are all individuals. What works for one, might not work for another. Allow more time for rescue and mistreated dogs as you don’t want to cause them anymore unnecessary stress.