Does your dog bark excessively when the doorbell rings or when visitors arrive? If so, you're not alone. Inappropriate barking can be one of the most frustrating behaviours for dog owners to deal with. Here are some tips to help you manage this issue effectively.
First, it's essential to identify whether your dog's barking is a pattern behavior or a stress behaviour. Pattern behaviours are easier to fix with training and positive reinforcement, while stress behaviours require a different approach.
For pattern behaviours, you can use positive reinforcement with treats to train your dog. Keep your dog on a leash and offer treat rewards for focus and obedience while someone rings the doorbell or enters the home. Training sessions should be short, around 10 minutes, to keep your dog engaged.
If your dog's barking is stress-induced, consider using products like our Soothe + Calm Day Spray to help manage their stress levels. Apply the spray to their bed or your hands and rub it on them 5-10 minutes before expected stressors like visitors arriving.
If you believe your dog's barking is due to anxiety, consult your vet for further advice. Some dogs may require medication alongside natural supplements to manage their mental health effectively.