The first thing you need to do to fix the dog barking problem, is find out why your dog is barking so much. Whilst it is normal for a dog to bark, there can be underlying issues behind excessive barking. Finding and addressing these is the surest way to deal with the problem and stop your dog barking.

Dog Barking Problem Type 1 - The Attention Seeker

Now, a dog barking to get attention may not be an attention seeker in the same way some humans who behave outrageously or annoyingly are. Sometimes we teach our dogs that certain behaviours will have an associated reward. If, as a puppy, we reinforced our dog barking a lot by giving him attention to try and make him quiet, he will think this is a natural consequence of his barking.

But why would he bark too much in the first place, when he is grown up? Dogs need a certain amount of exercise and social interaction. If your dog is left alone for long periods of time, does not have enough exercise, or enough interesting things to do in the house or yard where he spends most of his days, these factors need addressing if you are going to have any peace. - And for your dog to be truly happy.

Some dogs are by nature more active than others. If they are left in small yards because of city living, they may become bored much more easily. One of the easiest ways to fix this is to give him more exercise. Not only will he thus be getting a way to express his extra energy in a form different to barking, but he will be spending more time with his beloved owner. If you are unable to do this yourself because of work or family commitments, get one of your children or a dog walker to take him for the extra walks.

Dogs generally need daily walks. They get exercise, and can explore the world around them. It is great for them psychologically as well as physically. Taking your dog to a local park will let him meet other dogs and people, and you might make some new friends too! One of my friends found this a great way to settle into a new neighborhood where she didn't know anybody.

And check out a local dog obedience class. It will help you communicate better with your dog. Other ways to stop your dog barking is to give him plenty of toys to play with when you're not around. And finally, like you would with a child, give your dog some one on one time every day. If you do this and make it fun, he will learn that he doesn't need to bark to get your attention.

Dog Barking Problem Type 2 - Fear

Dogs can bark when they are afraid. Barking during thunderstorms is a good example of this. If this is part of your dog barking problem, give your dog a safe place they can go during a thunderstorm, or when there is a loud noise that might disturb them. A crate will work. Put treats in there, like Kong filled with peanut butter. And play a radio or the television to help mask the noise.

Sometimes dogs are afraid of unfamiliar people. This is especially true if he wasn't around people much when he was a puppy. Get your friends and neighbors to help you out. Ask them to walk by and then walk up to your dog. Get them to ask your dog to sit. When he is able to do this without barking, ask them to give him a treat. Soon, your dog will associate people he doesn't know with treats!

Dog Barking Problem Type 3 - Separation Anxiety

Dogs can become very attached to their owners. If your dog is barking a lot when you're not at home, this could be the cause. This can come up also if there has been a change in your dog's environment - perhaps a divorce, or a death in the family. In this situation, you will need to desensitize your dog. Begin by making small trips, initially just to the mailbox and back, and leave delicious treats and toys for your dog whilst you're gone. Slowly increase the length of time you are away. To check on how this is progressing, use a tape recorder to see if your dog is barking much, or ask your neighbors to monitor things whilst you are away. Medication may also need to be prescribed. If this is the case, check in with your vet or an animal behaviorist.

Another approach to stop your dog barking that some people use, is a bark collar. The most humane bark collar available today is the citronella collar. It works by spraying citronella, which has a strong smell but is harmless, in your dog's face every time he barks.