Dog Whisperer's Guide: How to Stop Dog from Barking at Other Dogs

Struggling with a furry friend who just can't stop barking at other dogs? We're here to help you understand and manage this behavior effectively.
Things you need..
A well-fitting harness or collar – https://fave.co/3sOWPmg
A sturdy leash – https://fave.co/46vOphw
Treats for positive reinforcement – https://fave.co/46hf2GM
A quiet, distraction-free area for initial training
Patience and consistency


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Now that you have all your tools and materials ready, let's get into it…



Step 1: Understanding Why Dogs Bark

Before we dive into the training, it's crucial to understand why dogs bark at other dogs. Researchers at the Animal Behavior Clinic at Cornell University explain that barking can be a form of greeting, a sign of anxiety, or a response to feeling threatened. Knowing the 'why' helps us address the 'how' to stop it.

Step 2: Create a Solid Foundation of Obedience

Start with basic commands like 'sit', 'stay', and 'look at me'. These commands create a basis for attention and control, which is essential when you encounter other dogs. It's all about positive reinforcement – rewarding the behavior we want to see more of.

Step 3: Gradual Exposure

Once your dog masters the basics, it's time for controlled exposure to other dogs. Start at a distance where your dog notices the other dogs but doesn't bark. The idea is to desensitize them to the presence of other dogs, a technique supported by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).

Step 4: The 'Look at That' Game

Now, introduce the 'Look at That' (LAT) game, which comes from Leslie McDevitt's Control Unleashed program. When your dog looks at another dog without barking, mark the behavior with a 'yes' or a clicker and give a treat. It teaches them that calm behavior in the presence of other dogs results in good things.

Step 5: Close the Distance

Gradually decrease the distance between your dog and others, continuing to reward non-barking behavior. If barking starts, you've moved too fast. Step back and slow down the process. Remember, patience is key!

Step 6: Avoid Punishment

Punishment can increase anxiety and worsen the barking. Studies from the Journal of Veterinary Behavior recommend positive reinforcement over punitive measures for better behavioral outcomes.

Step 7: Consistency is Crucial

Keep the training consistent. Short, daily sessions are more effective than long, sporadic ones. Consistency helps your dog learn what's expected of them.


And there you have it – a step-by-step approach to helping your dog stay calm and quiet around their canine peers. Remember, every dog is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. It's about finding what resonates with your dog and sticking with it.

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