How To Train Dog Not Bark At Strangers
Most dogs bark at strangers. This is a natural instinct that helps them protect their territory and their family. But sometimes this instinct can get in the way of your dog’s training and make it harder for you to teach them not to bark.
To train your dog not to bark at strangers, you need to find out what triggers the barking. You may need to take your dog for a walk in an area where there are lots of strangers so they can get used to the idea of being around people who are not part of their pack. You can also try teaching them that barking will make people go away by ignoring them when they bark, or giving them something else that makes noise when they do (such as a toy).
How can I get my dog to not bark at people?
Use a white-noise generator or leave your TV on when you leave. This will help prevent your dog from hearing sounds that may trigger barking sessions. Desensitize your dog to his sound triggers by getting him used to them. Play audio of people talking, cars, kids, dogs barking (whatever outside noises trigger him).[1]
Why does my dog keep barking at strangers?
When a dog barks at strangers, it is generally an arousal response as a way to communicate an alert, a way to show fear, or as an act of protection. This bark can be reinforced by your behavior, by other dogs barking, or can even be self-reinforced as dogs will wind themselves up.[2]
Will my dog grow out of barking at strangers?
Barking is normal dog behavior and puppies won’t grow out of it, but you can take positive steps to reduce it and teach your dog alternative ways to communicate. Barking can be a really important tool to learn what scares your dog or makes them uncomfortable.[3]
Why does my dog bark at new people?
Some dogs bark at people or other animals to gain attention or rewards, like food, toys or play. Your dog might be barking in greeting if he barks when he sees people or other dogs and his body is relaxed, he’s excited and his tail is wagging. Dogs who bark when greeting people or other animals might also whine.[4]
How do I socialize my dog?
Step 1: Go for Walks. Step 2: Introduce Your Dog to Another Adult Dog. Step 3: Introduce Your Dog to an Adult Human. Step 4: Introduce Your Dog to Puppies and Children. Step 5: Visit Dog Parks. Step 6: Attend Doggie Daycare.[5]
At what age do dogs start barking at strangers?
During your puppy’s socialization period, which lasts from about 6 to12 weeks of age, she may bark at anything unfamiliar, including people and noises. Your puppy may repeat this behavior at a later period, starting at about four to six months of age.[6]
What dog breeds bark the most?
Golden Retrievers. A golden retriever named Charlie has held the world record for loudest bark since 2012! German Shepherds. German shepherds are great guard dogs and often serve with the police or military. Siberian Huskies. Rottweilers and Doberman Pinschers. Terriers. Basset Hounds and Beagles.[7]
Why does my dog bark at some people and not others?
The likely reason why your dog growls or barks at some people and not others is because of their body language, the way they look or smell, how they interact with the dog or behave towards you or because the person reminds the dog of someone who previously mistreated them.[8]
Why does my dog bark at everything outside?
Barking at things outside can become a natural behavior for our dogs as they seek out a “job” as protector of the household. When they bark, they are alerting us to what they perceive as potential dangers.[9]
Why does my dog bark at strangers on walks?
Lack of Socialization Dogs who haven’t been properly socialized may also bark at strangers on walks. Usually, this stems from the dog’s puppyhood. Puppies, when they’re very young, need a lot of socialization with humans. This gets them used to people and allows them to realize that humans aren’t a threat.[10]
Why does my dog bark and lunge at strangers?
Most dogs will bark to warn you when a stranger approaches, this is a natural part of their role as a member of your “pack”, and most pet owners appreciate that it is part of their job as your pet and companion.[11]
Why do dogs bark at people aggressively?
The real cause is fear. That’s right, fear. Dogs that are aggressive to strangers (i.e., non-family members) are afraid of the stranger. The aggression is an attempt by the dog to create distance between them and the scary human.[12]
