A barking dog can be a nuisance to some people, owners and neighbors alike, but sometimes it’s hard to figure out how to stop dog barking. Dogs communicate by barking, so telling a dog not to bark is like asking a human not to talk. There is a difference between necessary barking and unnecessary barking, the key is that your dog knows the difference too.

Dogs often bark when they are upset about something; strangers, are afraid, feel threatened in some way, or are bored. Dogs occasionally bark for attention, and if you respond to every bark your dog makes, you’ll find that this method works. Once a dog begins to get used to barking unnecessarily, it is very difficult to get him to stop.

If your dog feels threatened by new people, put him in the backyard or in his crate when visitors arrive. Dogs need to be socialized as young puppies, so they can get used to interacting with many people, but this is difficult to do with an adult dog that has its habits. You can slowly introduce him to new people, so he won’t be afraid of everyone who comes along.

Sometimes having a place where he feels safe is enough to stop him from barking. If there is a corner that you can make your own, but you still have free range of the house. Then you can go out when you feel safer. When boredom is the problem, there are a few alternatives to try. Maybe taking him for a walk or playing ball in the park for a while is just what he needs.

When he needs to be away for a long period of time, provide plenty of toys for him to play. If it’s a house dog, leaving the radio or television on is often soothing. You can also play a tape of you or your family having a quiet conversation. This sound often makes them feel comfortable and not so lonely. There are also some dogs that feel safer hiding in their crate while the family is away. Once you know how to stop dog barking, it will be less stressful for everyone involved.