Nuisance Barking Solutions
Is your dog disturbing you and your neighbors because they bark too much? Fortunately this problem is easier to fix than you might think. You have several options when it comes to methods of getting your dog to stop barking. There are special collars to keep them from barking, you can also train them the old fashioned way. Just remember debarking you dog isn’t the best option and is often times considered to be cruel.
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Step 1:
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Barking Problems
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Dogs bark to show displeasure, often when someone or something intrude into their territory. Intensive training used to be the only way to quiet a loud dog. But now technology is making it much easier.
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Step 2:
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Ultrasound Collars
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Ultrasonic collars can be effective in reducing a dog’s vocalization. They work by emitting a high-frequency noise every time the dog barks. The dog finds the noise unpleasant and soon associates the sound with barking.
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Step 3:
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Shock Collar
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Another solution for stubborn dogs is an electrical stimulus or shock collar. The dog receives a shock whenever they bark. Electrical stimulus collar can be set from a light to strong correction.
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Step 4:
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Citronella Collar
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A more human solution is a citronella collar. When a dog barks, a spray of citronella is released towards the face. This collar is very effective. The spray is non-toxic but must be replaced often if your dog barks frequently.
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Step 5:
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Conditioning
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There’s a simple way to train your dog to stop barking. It involves chicken and the word ‘shoosh’. Take the piece of chicken away from in front of his nose while he’s barking. Now, say the word ‘shhh’ and when he quiets down, give him the chicken and say ‘Good boy! Good shoosh’. After a month or so, your dog associates the word ‘shoosh’ with being quiet and will stop barking.
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Step 6:
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De-Barking
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Some dog owners go to extreme and have their dogs de-bark. This is not a solution. De-barking is cruel and can cause psychological issues. Barking is a normal part of a dog’s communication and it’s to be expected.
If you have a problem barker, consider talking to a behaviorist to work at a solution.
