“Barking is a natural expression dogs use to communicate and it’s useful as a way to release stress and tension from the body.” Becker.
It is natural for dogs to bark.
If you expect your dog to not bark at all, that would not be a realistic approach.
Some dogs bark at low frequency, while others tend to bark very loudly.
Some breeds of dogs are calm and tend to bark less.
They are ideal for keeping as a pet if you don’t like too much noise.
You need to train a dog that’s too loud and barks too much.
Some dogs are easy to teach to be quiet.
While some dogs take time, you must teach them to follow your commands whenever you signal them to be quiet.
Some breeds of dogs are not easy to train, whereas some breeds can be trained very easily.
Once a dog gets trained and starts acting according to your commands, it becomes fun.
Along with the fun element, it is also necessary for pet dogs to be trained.
When you keep the dog inside your house, you expect him to behave accordingly.
To discipline your dog, you must train him at an early age.
It would be more convenient if your pet dog didn’t bark unnecessarily.
Too much barking can produce unnecessary noise.
This can be disturbing for your family as well as your neighbors.
You should train your dog to be quiet on your command.
“My fashion philosophy is, if you’re not covered in dog hair, your life is empty.” – Elayne Boosler
Different dog trainers have different techniques for training dogs.
Let us see below some basic techniques that can be followed for almost all breeds of dogs to make them quiet.
Here are simple steps that you can follow.
1. First, create a situation where you’re sure your dog will bark.
Your dog may bark when the doorbell rings, when a stranger is around, or when he sees another dog outside.
2. When your dog starts barking, look for the source.
See if the dog is barking because of the same situation you created for him to bark.
3. The dog will keep barking for some time.
Or he may bark till the source exists.
When the dog stops barking, offer him a treat to get his attention.
4. Keep repeating the above steps and wait for a longer period till your dog stops barking.
5. Choose any cue word by which you want your dog to be quiet. It can be any word like “hush,” “quiet.” or “silent.”
6. Now, this step is very important.
While your dog is barking, call out your cue word in a firm and loud voice.
In a voice that is audible to the dog.
7. Select a reward for your dog.
It can be chicken pieces, a liver treat, or any other training treat.
Hold the treat in your hand and show it to the dog.
Give only when the dog stops barking at your command.
Some important tips for teaching
“For puppies that need more enrichment or companionship, a second dog may help reduce anxiety-induced barking.”
Here are some important tips you should remember in training your dog to be quiet.
• Keep your training sessions brief but repeat them frequently.
Anytime your dog barks, call out your cue word.
• Train a little but often. Be consistent.
• Remember to be consistent and patient in your technique.
Some dogs may take a longer period.
• Always use positive reinforcement.
Try to control your anger if the dog is taking long.
- Reward-based training would help the dog learn more quickly.
- Scolding or yelling at your dog won’t help.
- It is normal for your dog to bark.
It is a natural way for them to communicate.
• Quitting the training session in-between can be confusing for the dog.
Be determined and continue training even if it takes a long.
More methods for teaching your dog to be quiet
Three more methods can be useful for you to teach your dog to be quiet.
These methods may seem somewhat similar, but they have a slight difference in their techniques.
You will gain the same results from all three of them.
You can adopt any method according to your convenience.
1. The barking-on-command method
2. The reward quiet method
3. The desensitize method
Let us briefly see step by step all three of them below.
1. The barking-on-command method
• First, try to trigger your dog to bark.
For instance, your dog may bark when someone approaches the door.
Let your dog bark for some time.
After some time, offer a treat.
It could be anything that your dog loves.
Let you smell it until he stops barking.
• Keep repeating the above step until your dog starts following your speaking command.
• After your dog has learned the speak command, come to the next step.
Teach him to be quiet.
Ask him to be quiet in a firm but polite manner.
Offer him the treat when he becomes quiet.
Don’t give the treat until he becomes quiet.
This should be done in an environment that is free from all distractions.
• Now move to the distracting environment.
Repeat the trigger. Give the command to be quiet.
If the dog gets quiet on your command, offer him a treat.
• Keep repeating this training session for the next few days until your dog learns to be quiet on your first command.
Now it’s not necessary to offer the treat.
2. The reward quiet method
• Limit your dog to an enclosed area where there are no distractions.
For instance, a garage.
• Your dog may start barking out of boredom. Just ignore him.
Do not even look at him, or else he will bark even longer next time.
Ignore till he gets quiet himself.
• When the dog stops barking, give him a treat, even for a smaller period.
Or take him out of that enclosed area.
• Repeat the above process the next day.
Keep repeating until the barking time lessens.
Every time he stops barking, release him or praise or give him a treat.
• Continue this training session until the dog learns that barking will not help.
He should know that only being quiet and disciplined will help him get released.
3. The desensitize method
• Identify what makes your dog bark so much.
It could be the doorbell, a cat, another dog, a stranger passing by, or the noise of a vacuum cleaner inside the house.
• Now that you know the stimulus, bring it before the dog.
You can create a trigger too.
Keep it at the maximum distance possible from the dog.
Try that your dog does not start barking immediately.
• Distract your dog with lots of treats and toys while the stimulus is still there.
• Now start making the distance less.
Gradually bring the stimulus closer to the dog.
If the dog starts barking, take away the toys and the treats.
Give them back when he becomes quiet again.
This is positive reinforcement.
• Repeat the above process for the next few days.
You need to be patient.
Some dogs may take a lot of time to desensitize.
Eventually, your dog will learn to be quiet in the presence of the stimulus.
Conclusion
In conclusion, teaching your dog to be quiet is achievable with consistent training, positive reinforcement, and patience.
Remember to address the root cause of the barking or noise, use appropriate training techniques, and reward desired behavior.
With time and effort, you can enjoy a harmonious and peaceful relationship with your furry friend.
FAQs
1. Q: How can I teach my dog to be quiet?
A: Start with positive reinforcement, reward your dog for calm behavior, use commands like “quiet” or “enough,” and address any underlying causes of barking or noise.
2. Q: My dog barks excessively, what should I do?
A: Excessive barking can be due to various reasons, such as boredom, anxiety, or fear. Identify the underlying cause and address it through training, mental stimulation, and providing appropriate outlets for your dog’s energy.
3. Q: Are there any specific commands to teach my dog to be quiet?
A: Yes, you can use commands like “quiet,” “enough,” or “stop” to communicate with your dog that you want them to be quiet. Be consistent and reward your dog for complying with the command.
4. Q: Can I use punishment to stop my dog from barking?
A: It’s not recommended to use punishment as it can create fear and anxiety in your dog, which may worsen the behavior. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement techniques and redirect your dog’s attention to appropriate behaviors.
5. Q: How long does it take to teach a dog to be quiet?
A: The duration can vary depending on your dog’s breed, age, temperament, and underlying reason for the barking. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key to successful training.