Start by telling your dog to “speak. ” Wait for him to bark two to three times. Then reward the dog with a high value treat or a favorite toy to show it that you want this behavior.
You can use a hand signal like clapping or snapping. You can also use a clicker when you say “speak” if your dog uses clicker training.
Repeat these actions several times until your dog starts barking when you say “speak”. You may also do the necessary hand gesture or click the clicker to trigger him to speak.
If your dog struggles with the “speak” command, you may need to practice this command a bit more with your pup before you move on to the “stop barking” command. Be patient and give your dog time to learn the “speak” command before you move onto the “stop barking” command.
You may try practicing the “stop barking” command by the front door or by another area where your dog tends to bark uncontrollably. This can help to teach him that he needs to be quiet and stop barking no matter where he is in your home.
You may also delay the reward for “quiet” for longer periods of time to ensure your dog understands that “quiet” means to stop barking for a continued stretch of time. You may delay the reward for 30 seconds and then for one minute to ensure your dog understands he needs to be quiet.
You can also test this command at the dog park when the dog is around other dogs. You may do the “quiet” command when your dog spots another dog to ensure he does not bark.
Try not to get your dog riled up when someone is at the door as this can lead to barking. Do not ask, “Who’s at the door?” or “Who’s that?” when someone rings the bell. Instead, act calm and give the “quiet” command so your dog does not bark when someone is at the door. It is important for you to minimize the things your dog barks at by keeping a calm demeanor. If you treat things like they aren’t a big deal, then so will your dog.
Smaller breeds may require only a short walk outside or around the neighborhood on a daily basis to go to the bathroom and get some exercise. Larger breeds may need longer walks outside and trips to the dog park to get some exercise. [14] X Expert Source Beverly UlbrichDog Behaviorist & Trainer Expert Interview. 30 January 2020.
You should also make sure everyone in your household also uses the same commands and rules for your dog. If you live with others, you may need to have a house meeting where you outline the rules for the dog so everyone is on the same page and agrees to stick to a consistent set of commands.
