Choose an area where dogs normally frequent, such as a dog park or a pet store. [3] X Research source There may be some initial trial and error to determine just how far away to initially position yourself and your dog. If you go to a pet store, you may want to stand at the edge of the parking lot or far away on the sidewalk. If you go to a dog park, stand at the edge or in a corner of the park.
Discontinue the treats after the other dog has passed by. Remember to reduce the size of your dog’s meals to account for the extra treats you give him during his training sessions. [6] X Research source As your training progresses, replace the treats with verbal praise and petting. [7] X Research source Watch your dog closely for signs (growling, raising hackles, staring) that he will begin barking. [8] X Research source The goal is to give him treats before he starts reacting or barking. With repetition, your dog will probably start looking to you for his treat when he does not bark or react.
It is very important for you and other family members to say the phrase or cue consistently so your dog knows when he should not bark. [10] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source
As you move closer, watch your dog’s body language to see if it’s just being playful or it is aggressive around other dogs. A playful dog might be wagging its tail and bouncing around, while an agitated, aggressive dog might be more stiff and slow and may bare its teeth. [12] X Research source Beverly Ulbrich. Dog Trainer and Behaviorist. Personal interview. 30 January 2020. You may have to get creative with how you move closer. For example, if you are at a pet store, you may have to reposition yourself on the sidewalk or in the parking lot.
Your first instinct may be to keep a short, tight grip to the leash. However, this can make it more likely that your dog will pull. Hold the leash firmly, but not too tightly. [16] X Research source Throughout the walk, if you have to move your dog away, be sure not to pull on the leash. [17] X Research source
Turn your body towards the side of you on which your dog is already standing, giving him a little nudge to turn with you. Teach your dog to turn around on cue. Give your dog a verbal cue (‘turn,’ ‘turn around’) and use a treat to lure him to turn. [21] X Research source With enough repetition and reward, your dog will learn this cue. Call your dog’s name to get his attention, then run or walk backwards as you are facing him. [22] X Research source This will keep your dog’s attention on you as you are putting space between him and the other dog.
You could also bring a squeaky toy with you as a distraction. [24] X Research source
Be mindful that your dog may still be tempted to bark, even if you can control his body’s movements.
Make the challenge something your dog will enjoy. [28] X Research source
Once your dog learns to consistently bark when you say ‘speak,’ give him the ‘quiet’ command to stop barking. Hold another treat in front of his nose and give it to him when he stops barking. With practice, your dog will learn to stop barking at other dogs when you say ‘quiet. ’[30] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source It is best to start teaching the ‘quiet’ command in an area without distractions. [31] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source You can then practice the command in an area where he is likely to see or hear other dogs. Do not yell ‘quiet. ’ If you yell, your dog will think you’re barking too!
If your dog can’t see or hear the other dog, then he won’t have anything to bark at. Your dog may engage in ‘fence fighting,’ in which he runs back and forth along the fence line, barking at another dog to keep him away. [35] X Research source This may be fun for your dog, but would not fun for you, the other dog, or the other dog’s owner. Bring him inside if he starts doing this.
Noisy tags and vocalizations can be barking triggers. [37] X Research source When your dog stops barking, consider giving him a treat to reward him for stopping his barking.
