By Tanya M. Ursual

From The Lanark Animal Welfare Society (LAWS) L.A.W.S., P.O. Box 156, Smiths Falls, ON, K7A 4T1:

A recent email to our shelter prompted an idea for an article on the various causes of barking. Unlike other behavioural problems, which affect only a dog’s family, barking can impact an entire neighbourhood. It is normal for a dog to bark from time to time. It is a means for your dog to communicate with you and its world and can be a symptom of play, protection and/or frustration. If a dog is continually barking, for long periods of time, it is usually a symptom of a greater problem. This article outlines the three main reasons dogs bark and how you can limit their talkative behaviour to appropriate times.

1) Loneliness/Frustration/Attention Seeking:

If your dog is lonely or bored he may be expressing his frustration using his voice. Dogs are social animals and want your company so never leave them alone for long periods of time. When your dog MUST be alone ensure it has stimulation such as toys or a companion. He may be frustrated from a lack of exercise so be sure to walk your dog at least twice a day. Take five minutes each day to teach your dog a new trick. Dog-training classes are an excellent opportunity for you to spend time with your dog while working towards a common goal. Try giving your dog a spa treatment such as petting and grooming. Not only will your dog enjoy the attention but you will enjoy the rewards of a pleasantly scented pooch. A kong toy stuffed with a treat can provide hours of stimulation. Caesar Milan, known as the “Dog Whisperer” repeatedly advises dog owners that extensive daily exercise is a MUST and can solve most dog behavioural problems.

2) Territorial/Protective Barking:

It is a dog’s nature to bark while protecting its family. Your dog may also bark in response to other dogs and people he views as intruders. Allow your dog to bark two or three barks at a passerby but then say “quiet” and interrupt his barking with a spray bottle. When he is quiet say “good quiet” and give him a treat. The spray bottle is not to punish him, it is only to silence him long enough to give him a reward for having stopped barking. Always have your dog spayed or neutered to decrease territorial behaviour. Practice quiet time by having a friend slowly approach the house. Encourage your dog to sit and stay quiet, providing treats for good behaviour. As the person gets closer continue to reward your dog’s behaviour if they have remained quiet. If they begin to bark correct them with the water spray until they quiet down again. Lastly, never encourage your dog to bark at things he may hear or see outside. Again, your dog may be associating excitement and fun things with a new person approaching his area. With enough exercise and stimulating play time on his own, your dog will be more likely to obey your “quiet” commands.

3) Fears/Phobias and Seperation Anxiety Barking:

It is possible that your dog is barking out of fear. Loud noises such as thunder, firecrackers or big trucks can be fearful to your dog. If your dog’s ears are back and its tail is held low, your dogs posture indicates fear. If your dog is suffering from severe fear, or anxiety you will need to see your vet to discuss the possibility of anti-anxiety medication. If your dog is frightened during thunderstorms, put them in a comfortable but windowless room and leave a television, radio or fan on to lessen the noise. The muted noise may help lower your dog’s anxiety. If your dog’s barking only occurs when you are gone or it displays other strong unhealthy attachments, you will definitely want to speak to your vet about seperation anxiety treatments.

Never use punishment to try to stop your dog’s barking. Use your common sense to try to figure out what your dog is telling you. Your dog is counting on you to learn how to speak "doggie" and you will both be happier for the communication.