Welcome to our guide to understanding why dogs bark. Below the team from BarxBuddy reviews how to use our signature product, The BarxBuddy ultrasonic training device, to control barking dogs (even if they’re not yours).
We at BarxBuddy often are asked to demonstrate and explain how to use ultrasonic technology to train dogs, especially when they bark. Our approach to training dogs is simple. First, figure out why the dog is doing whatever it is that it’s doing (barking excessively, growling, jumping, digging, etc.). Second, distract them from that behavior. Third, give a verbal command that stops the unwanted behavior. Finally, offer a treat or reward when they obey your command. And then? Repeat.
Because dog barking is the most common reason people buy (and love) the ultrasonic trainer, according to BarxBuddy reviews, we’re going to focus this how-to guide on using The BarxBuddy to control barking. However, you can use this technique for training any unwanted behavior — from jumping and digging to tormenting the cat.
First, Understand Why Your Dog Does What It Does
We aren’t saying you need to be a dog whisperer (although it would help), but you must learn to recognize the different barks from your dog. Although dogs bark as one of their primary forms of communication, a bark’s sound varies among situations. Of course, you can’t and shouldn’t want to completely silence your pet, as certain barks can be a good thing (stranger danger!). If barking becomes excessive and hard to control, you’ll want to reign it in for your sanity, your neighbors’, and your dog’s. Some breeds like the Chihuahua and beagle are inherent barkers, so, you may find little quells the noise.
Common reasons dogs bark
Let’s take a look at the different types of barks and when it’s best to use an anti-barking device, like the BarxBuddy.
- ALARM BARKING: If your dog barks at everything he sees and hears, it’s most likely he’s alarm barking. You never know what’s going to set off an alarm barker. This one’s a toughie to figure out, so don’t be discouraged.
- TERRITORIAL BARKING: Your dog may start barking like crazy if he senses other dogs, animals, or people approaching or in their space (like your home or yard). Territorial barking is common and usually stops when the offending outsider leaves the area.
- GREETING BARKS: When your dog gets excited any time you arrive home or guests come to visit, he may add in some greeting barks and maybe a few whines to get the attention of whoever has come through the door. Greeting barking often includes a lot of tail-wagging and jumping.
- SEPARATION ANXIETY: If your dog suffers from separation anxiety, chances are he barks at great length when you are away from home. This type of barking usually comes with other behaviors like chewing on things, having indoor accidents and pacing.
- ATTENTION, PLEASE: Some dogs enjoy attention-seeking barking because it ends with their owner fawning over them with a handful of treats.
- HEALTH ISSUES: Your dog may bark due to an illness or injury. Before you address your dog’s barking, ensure it’s not because of a health problem.
3 reminders about dog barking
Once you have ruled out a threat or health issue as the reason behind your dog’s excessive barking, there are a few tips to keep in mind when working with your dog.
- Be sure he gets plenty of daily exercise. A tired dog is (usually) a good dog
- Don’t accidentally reinforce your dog’s barking by looking at him, petting him, or otherwise doing something he’ll think is a “good dog” reward.
- Resist the urge to yell. When you yell, your dog will think you’re joining in his cacophony of barking.
Next, Interrupt Your Dog’s Bad Behavior
Here is where the handheld BarxBuddy ultrasonic device comes into play. Keep it nearby, especially during times of day when you know he’ll be ready to start his unwanted behaviors, like barking at the postman or at neighbors walking dogs.
The BarxBuddy works best when it is within 50 feet of your pet. As soon as he starts barking, press the button to emit a high-frequency sound that’s only audible to your dog. How do you know it’s working? A light displays when you press the “On” button. The sound will immediately catch your dog’s attention so you can address him with a “quiet” command and redirect his attention.
Don’t expect to change your dog’s behavior overnight. Training with the BarxBuddy, like any dog training, takes time and consistency. Everyone in the household needs to be on board; otherwise, your pet will learn he can get away with his annoying barking behavior with those that aren’t participating in the training. Use the BarxBuddy every time your dog barks unnecessarily without good cause to teach him to bark when appropriate. Offering your dog positive reinforcement with words like “good boy” and a treat when he follows your quiet command or redirect helps reinforce the correction.
Of course, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention our own delicious peanut-butter flavored dog treats, which are made from whole ingredients that you can actually pronounce.
BarxBuddy Reviews How to Control Other Barking Dogs
What if the barking dog isn’t yours? The BarxBuddy can come in handy to control excessive barking, whether it’s your neighbor’s dog or a dog that approaches you while you’re on a walk. When the dog starts barking, point the BarxBuddy toward the dog and press the button. The sound emitted should instantly quiet the animal and possibly retreat. If the dog is not yours, do not approach the animal as this could pose a danger to you.