Punishing your dog for barking by spraying them with water does not teach them what they are doing wrong. Instead, it can be detrimental to your relationship! Please think twice before you spray your canine companion, or it may make them resent you.
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Can I Spray My Dog With Water to Stop Barking?
Spraying your dog with water is not a productive method to make your dog stop barking. The Animal Behavior College claims that punishment does not teach your dog positive behavior. Punishment confuses your dog.
When dogs do not understand why you are punishing them, they avoid barking in front of you. That means when you leave the house, talkative breeds like the Pomeranian or Basset Hound may bark more if you punish them frequently for barking.
Even worse, punishing your dog can cause them to resent you because they only associate you with negative actions.
Choosing to train your dogs using positive reinforcement is a much better choice. Positive reinforcement rewards your dog for good, quiet behavior.
Why is My Dog Barking?
Dogs are vocal animals, so there are many reasons why they may be barking. Expressing their needs, happiness, or anger are often reasons that dogs will bark.
Depending on the breed of dog you own, some dogs are more talkative than others. According to VetStreet, talkative dogs include Yorkshire Terrier, Pomeranian, Siberian Husky, and German Shepherd.
According to Americal Kennel Club, dogs are more expressive when we are looking at them. So, cheer happily, and they may bark back! Similarly, if you are quiet, they will likely imitate that calm behavior.
Some Dog Breeds are More Vocal
Some dog breeds are naturally more vocal than others, like the Bloodhound. Known for being the righthand to sleuths for generations, this loyal hound is one of the most vocal dog breeds.
Vocal dogs tend to be social and active. They love attention from their owners and do not like being left alone. If they are kept alone for too long, vocal dog breeds like Siberian Huskies will howl and bark.
Since some dog breeds are more talkative, consider how much barking you are willing to endure as a dog owner.
Dogs Bark to Communicate
Dogs use barks to communicate. Barks come in all forms like whimpers, howls, yelps, and even growls. They can say everything from “I’m hungry” all the way to “Welcome home!”. Your puppy pal will also bark to communicate basic needs like hunger, potty, and more.
Every bark sounds different depending on the breed, age, and size of the dog. Pay attention closely, and you can recognize the different meanings of its barks.
Dogs Bark to Defend Territory.
According to the authoritative website Pet WebMD, dogs often bark to defend territory. Territorial barks sound threatening, and in some cases, your dog may growl.
Dogs love to defend territory against other animals. Defending their territory is normal behavior, but not all natural behaviors should be encouraged.
If territorialism takes hold of your dog, it may become aggressive toward humans and other animals.
Preventative strategies and intervention methods are critical to minimize potential territorialism. Never expect to stop your dog’s desire to claim territory forever. Pay close attention and look for any signs of danger.
What Stops a Dog From Barking?
Positive reinforcement is the most effective way to stop a dog from barking. This method teaches your dog their behavior is wrong and bonds the two of you together!
In addition to stopping your dog from barking, using positive reinforcement to train your dog is also great for forming a close bond with your dog.
There are plenty of other ways to stop a dog from barking, too. Easily remove the cause of your dog’s barking or send your dog to obedience school, if necessary.
Treats for Good Behavior
Positive reinforcement is the most effective way to teach your barking dog to be quiet! When your canine companion is quiet, reward them with their favorite treat.
This method encourages your dog to stay calm in situations that would otherwise excite them. Every dog is different, so you should learn what riles up your dog so you can be prepared to reward them.
If your dog is not a treats pup, try giving them belly scratches or extra playtime when they behave well.
Never Use Bark Collars
According to the Humane Society, bark collars are cruel because they inflict pain on your dog. Barking is your dog’s way of communicating.
Bark collars do not identify the cause of your dog’s barking problems. By placing a bark collar on their neck, you discourage your dog from expressing their basic needs.
With a bark collar, you are hurting your dog, and that alone can cause resentment. The effects of bark collars can be long-lasting even if they only wore them for a short period.
Send a Dog to Obedience Training
Send an untrained dog to obedience school to learn basic verbal commands like “no,” which can be essential in teaching your dog not to bark.
An untrained dog does not listen because they do not know how! Investing in obedience training helps your dog understand your commands, and they will then be more likely to behave.
In obedience training, they will not just learn basic verbal commands, either. Tell trainers about your barking problems, and most facilities will be happy to help nip the barking issues in the bud.
Eliminate Distractions
Dogs love to focus their attention on one thing and get caught up looking at it for hours. If you notice your dog fixated on one thing, move it out of their line of vision.
For instance, if your dog barks at a bird feeder outside the window, move the bird feeder to another tree, if possible.
Eliminating the distractions your dog encounters is a temporary solution that will not always work. When it does, utilize the quick-fix! Taking away what is drawing your dog’s attention can significantly reduce the amount of barking.
My name is Ken and I’m one of the staff writers at Petloverguy.com. I’ve cared for pets most of my life starting with hamsters, turtles, and snakes. Then moving up to parakeets, guinea pigs, and even ducks.
I currently live with two yorkies and a chihuahua mix.