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how to stop a dog from barking

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Barking is a form of regular communication for dogs. Whether they want to get your attention or acknowledge a visitor in the home, it's their call to be heard.

While it's of course common for dogs to bark, it can be frustrating when they don't seem to stop, especially during the silent hours of the night. So how do you stop a dog from barking? Country Living speaks to the experts to find out...

Why does my dog bark?

There are many ways that you can get your dog to stop barking, but first it's important to look at why your dog is barking to begin with. Some of the reasons they may be making a loud noise include...

When there is someone at the door
If someone walks past the window
If they spot a bird or a cat
To get your attention
If they are left on their own
When they are bored
When someone new walks into the home
A car pulling into the driveway

Close-Up Of Dog With Mouth Open Looking Away

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How can you get your dog to stop barking?

Once you have identified the cause of your dog's barking, it will be much easier for you to know what you can do to get your dog to stop barking. Some of the expert-approved ways to get your dog to stop barking include...

1. Divert them from barking
"Instead of punishing your dog for something that they don't know is wrong, you should instead divert them from 'undesirable' behaviour and reward them for good behaviour, to reinforce this moving forward," Bill Lambert, a Kennel Club spokesperson tells Country Living.

"If, for example, your dog is constantly barking, the best course of action would be to interrupt and then distract them with a toy or game and then follow up with praise once settled and no longer barking."

2. Ignore the barking
Often, our pups will bark simply to get our attention. Another way to get them to stop is to ignore altogether. Soon they will realise that their barks aren't being picked up on, and hopefully stop. Remember to praise your dog, too. Once they stop barking, turn around and reward them with a treat.

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3. Enrol them in additional training
If you feel your pup still needs extra help, there are plenty of experts available to guide both you and your pet. "A well-behaved and well-trained dog is ultimately a happy one and taking your dogs to training classes is an important part of responsible dog ownership," Bill tells us.

"The Kennel Club Good Citizen Dog Training Scheme, the largest dog training programme in the country, is the perfect place to start if you're looking to train your dog or puppy. Instructors and clubs can provide training classes and practical advice for dogs of any age, size, ability or breed. All Good Citizen training clubs and Kennel Club Accredited Instructors across the UK can be found on the Kennel Club website."MORE INFO

Why is my dog barking so much?

It's not uncommon for dogs to bark more than normal, but sometimes it can be frustrating when you don't know why they are making so much noise.

According to research conducted by Rover, there are various different types of barks. Behind each one, you'll discover the reasons for why our pups make so much noise. Take a look at the seven common reasons below...

7 types of barks and what they mean

1. Territorial barking: this is where dogs will bark excessively in response to other people, dogs or animals who are on their territory. It's a form of them wanting to protect their home and owner.

2. Alarm barking: this is when your dog will bark in response to something — perhaps particular noises or sights that have alarmed them.

3. Attention-seeking barking: dogs often use this method to get attention from their owners, especially if they want a treat or a cuddle.

4. Greeting barking: this is the friendliest form of barking, typically used to say hello to visitors or people they pass on a walk. This bark is usually accompanied by a wagging tail, too.

5. Compulsive barking: Also known as repetitive barking, which dogs will often do alongside lots of movement.

6. Social barking: this is when dogs will bark because they hear another dog close by barking.

7. Frustration-inducing barking: dogs will bark like this when they are frustrated by a certain situation, such as being in isolation.

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