Constant Barking in Dogs

How to stop your dog barking

Dogs bark for a multitude of different reasons, and while it is absolutely part of their normal behaviour, constant barking can become problematic for both the pet owner and their neighbours. 
Understanding why a dog barks excessively is essential when it comes to addressing the issue and finding solutions that benefit both the dog, the owner and the environment.

Boredom 
Boredom or lack of stimulation can trigger excessive barking in dogs, particularly more intelligent or active breeds, as they often require more mental and physical stimulation in order for them to remain content. When left alone for extended periods without sufficient exercise or mental stimulation, they may resort to barking as a way to relieve their boredom or anxiety.

Separation Anxiety
More often than not dogs may bark excessively as a result separation anxiety. Being animals that thrive on our company, they form strong bonds with their owners. When left alone for too long, they can experience distress and resort to barking as a means of coping with their stress and anxiety. This may also manifest its self as howling.

Territorial behaviour 
Dogs often bark to alert their owners of potential threats. This behaviour can become problematic if a dog considers its self to be in complete control of its territory, leading to constant barking.

Health Issues 
Health issues can sometimes be be a factor with excessive barking. Pain, discomfort, or certain medical conditions might cause a dog to bark persistently. 
These are things that should be ruled out by a Vet before contacting a dog trainer or dog behaviourist.

Addressing constant barking requires a logical, or sometimes qualified approach. Whilst some areas of problem barking can be addressed with straight forward training, the issue is more often a result of an underlying behavioural issue, in which case you are more likely to get long term results by consulting a qualified dog trainer or behaviourist.

Stimulation and Exercise

Adequate exercise and mental stimulation is a must. Regular walks, interactive toys, and engaging activities can help channel a dog's energy in a positive way, and help reduce their urge to bark due to boredom or lack of stimulation. Whilst things like kongs and licky mats are useful, it is important that your dog does not learn to associate these things with being left alone.
There many things that should be considered if you have not yet got your new dog or puppy. Is the breed you have chosen a particularly vocal breed, are they high energy? Picking a breed of dog that does not suit your lifestyle can lead to a multitude of ongoing problems that can in some cases lead to owners being prosecuted by local councils resulting in fines of up to £5000.
 
In conclusion, constant barking in dogs can be a complex developed behavioural problem that can occur for various reasons. Understanding the underlying cause and employing a tailored approach involving training, environmental changes, and adequate stimulation can effectively resolve these issues. If you would like to find out how to stop your dog from constantly barking, Azz Rainey, Back to Balance Canine Behaviourist can help you to find the right solution for your own dogs constant barking, and covers Oxfordshire, Swindon, Gloucester as well as the surrounding areas. Please get in touch via the contact page on the website.

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