Understanding barking
Barking is a totally natural aspect of a dog's behavior and you must expect your puppy to grow into a dog that will bark. It is unrealistic, even unfair, to think you can train your dog to stop barking, but you, your family and neighbors will be happier if you can bring it under control.
"Stop barking": It's hardly surprising many people have barking problems with their dogs; dogs have no idea whether barking is something good or bad. That's because, sometimes when a dog barks, he is ignored; at other times he is shouted at to stop; then again he may be encouraged to bark if, for example, there's a suspicious, stranger nearby. So to help your dog know the rules, here's a helpful rule to start with; barking is acceptable until he is told to stop.
"Stop Barking" should be considered as a command for obedience rather than a telling off. You should let your dog bark two or three times, praise him for sounding the alarm, then say "Stop Barking" and hold out a treat in front of him. Your dog will stop straight away because he can't sniff the treat while barking; after a few seconds, give him the reward. Gradually increase the time when the barking stops to the giving of the reward and you will be able to stop your dog barking for as long as two minutes in just one training session, see Clicker training.
Tasty Tips
However, if you become worried or concerned about excessive barking that you have no control over, you should seek advice from your vet about next steps, such as specialist training or therapy.
Whining: This may sound heartless, but you should understand that going to comfort your puppy when he whines will actually make things worse. He'll think he's being praised for whining, and get into the habit. In fact, you can help him learn to stop by not going back to him when he whines. By ignoring your puppy, and only giving him attention and praise when he stops whining, he'll learn that whining and whimpering is not the way to solve things.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small Bites No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
For the faster metabolism of Small & Mini dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Pollock Meal & Insect Recipe Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Mobility Small Bites Chicken Meal, Brown Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Advanced nutrition to support hip & joint health from day 1
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Entrée Can Variety Pack Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Variety Pack
Hill's Science Diet Adult 11+ Small & Mini Chicken, Brown Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
For the unique nutritional needs of mature Small & Mini Dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Small & Mini Chicken Meal, Barley & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Low calories for less active small & mini dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight & Joint Support Hearty Vegetables and Tuna Stew Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight & Joint Support Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food
This weight management and mobility support dog food was created with Hill’s unique understanding of the biology of overweight dogs.
null Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Hearty Beef, Carrots & Peas Stew Dog Food
Delicious braised beef paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small Paws Chicken & Barley Entrée
Chicken & Barley recipe with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to help your puppy build immunity and strong bones
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Healthy Cuisine Roasted Chicken, Carrots & Spinach Stew Dog Food
Delicious roasted chicken paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Large Breed Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small Bites Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports lean muscle, for dogs who prefer smaller kibble
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Small Bites Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition. Delicious food in a small bite size.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Savory Stew with Beef & Vegetables Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small Paws dry dog food
Hill's Science Diet Perfect Digestion Small Bites Chicken, Brown Rice & Whole Oats Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome. Delicious food in a small bite size
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Small Bites Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Fewer calories for less active dogs, who prefer smaller kibble
Related articles
No Matter What Kind of Trip, This Dog Travel Checklist Can Help.
Whether you're taking your dog on a road trip, camping, or flying with him, use these helpful travel checklists to make sure you pack everything he needs.
What Should I Do for a Dog with a Splinter?
Discover helpful information on how to tell if your dog has a splinter, steps you can take to help, and when you need to seek help from a veterinarian.
Strange Behaviors You've Probably Noticed in Your Dog
Learn the meanings behind quirky & strange dog behaviors, such as why he tilts his head, why he chases his tail and why he scoots across your carpet.
Can Dogs Eat Turkey?
Is turkey meat safe for dogs? Learn whether it's OK to feed your dog turkey and important info about certain spices, turkey skin & turkey bones.
Why Fiber is Important for Your Dog's Health
Learn why fiber is an important part of a dog's diet, including the best sources of fiber, why solubility is key, how fiber can help manage disease & more.
Treating a Torn ACL/CCL in Dogs: TPLO Surgery & More
Learn about torn CCL injuries in dogs (equivalent to a torn ACL in humans), including risk factors, how they are diagnosed and how TPLO surgery can help.
Is My Dog Sick? How Can I Tell?
If your dog is behaving strangely and you suspect something is wrong, learn some common behaviors they may be exhibiting to show they're not feeling well.
Can Dogs Eat Cheese?
Learn whether cheese is a snack that's safe for your dog, including specific types of cheese, ingredients to watch for and how much is ideal.
My Dog Sleeps All Day: Is That Normal?
Concerned that your dog is sleeping all day? Learn how many hours dogs should be sleeping and why things like age have an impact on his sleeping habits.
Caring For Your Senior Dog's Special Needs
Get helpful advice on basic care requirements to keep your aging dog healthy and happy in his golden years.
Can Dogs Eat Watermelon?
Watermelon is usually a healthy treat for dogs, but learn the tips about its safety, which parts are OK to feed your dog, and how much is a healthy amount.
Tips for Keeping Your Dog Safe Outside
Learn the dangers of leaving your dog outside by himself, such as extreme heat or cold weather, and what you can do to help keep him safe.
When is a Puppy an Adult Dog?
By one year old, you puppy will be an adult dog – some behaviors may not change any time soon, but his needs in many areas have changed.
Frozen & Fun Dog Treats for Hot Summer Days
Learn how to make frozen dog treat recipes that can help keep your pup cool in the summer heat, including which ingredients work best to keep him hydrated.
Dominant Paws: Is Your Dog a Righty or Lefty?
Learn if dogs have dominant paws like humans have dominant hands, and discover how you can determine if your dog has a paw preference.
My Dog Is Not Affectionate Toward Me — Help!
Much like humans, not all dogs show affection the same way. While some dogs may not be as outgoing as others, learn how you can still form a loving bond.
Why Do Dogs Paws Smell Like Corn Chips?
You're not the only pet parent out there wondering, "Does My Dog Smell Like Corn Chips?" Learn why this is such a common smell your pup might give off.
When to Let Your Puppy Outside
Discover when puppies are old enough to go outside and explore the world, as well as tips for keeping your pup safe on walks and at dog parks.
What Painkillers Are Safe for Dogs?
Not sure which pain medicine you can give your dog? Learn which painkillers, such as aspirin or name brand pain meds, are safe for your dog.
Features to Look For in the Best Dog Harness
Learn important features and considerations when choosing a dog harness, including the style, material, proper fit and durability.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.