Mary Allen
Owners often experience discomfort when dogs bark at their relatives. Fortunately, there are ways to train behavior.
It is only natural for dogs to bark or growl at other dogs when they go for a walk. In many cases, this is simply a friendly greeting from others of the same species. However, barking can sometimes be aggressive. Then it is important to find out the reasons and not let the dog bark.
Barking is the communication that dogs typically use to get what they perceive to be positive or to prevent what they perceive as negative. Once a dog knows that it is actually getting a treat when it barks, it knows that this is good behavior.
Why Does a Dog Bark at Other Dogs?
Therefore, it is always important at the first stage to find out the reason for the barking. Some dogs are so happy to greet other dogs or people, while others may feel threatened. If you are concerned, for example, that your dog barks repeatedly and for an excessively long time, you should consult your veterinarian. Because, if necessary, there may be a medical cause behind it, such as pain.
If medical reasons are ruled out, you can watch for further barking circumstances. When and in what situations does your four-legged friend bark at his comrades? And what can you do to prevent this from happening?
For example, it’s important to keep your dog busy and energized. If your four-legged friend gets enough training every day, you play with him and he can move enough, he will probably get tired of barking easily. And bored dogs bark at their fellows more often than balanced four-legged friends.
Try a Different Route with the Dog
Perhaps your dog barks so much while walking because he is too busy on your usual route. So the next time you go for a walk along a quieter route and at quieter times, it can make a big difference. Then the likelihood of meeting many other dogs on the move is reduced.
Train with Your Dog – and See a Professional
Once your dog knows that other dogs are okay, he will stop barking at them. You can do a good job on this form of desensitization by putting in the reinforcement in the form of treats. For this, it is advisable, for example, to enlist the support of a friend with a dog.
The person should then stand so far away from the other dog that your dog is not barking at the other dog yet. The dog and owner may slowly approach while you treat your four-legged friend. As soon as the “intruders” are out of sight again, the meal stops.
All this needs to be repeated several times – each time a person with a different dog can come a little closer. Keep in mind, however, that this habituation process takes time and your dog will only gradually improve. It is important not to scold your dog if it barks again. Because to your four-legged friend, it sounds like you are barking with him. Instead, the workout should remain positive.
And of course: if you are unable to progress on your own, it may be helpful to consult a professional trainer.