How To Stop Your Dog From Barking At Other Dogs

Dogs bark for various reasons as it is their primary form of communication as well as reaction. While we don't want our dogs to stop barking altogether, since it can help us understand their feelings or if there's a threat, constant barking at other dogs can be troublesome and distressing.

Fortunately, there are several strategies you can try to help manage and reduce this behavior.

Consistency and repetition are as important as the training when you try to address your dog's barking. If you have kids or a family, make sure that all your family members use the same techniques to maintain consistent training. Or even your roommate!

Below are some things you can try to stop the barking:

Remove the Motivation

Your dog barks because they receive some form of reward, even if it's just your attention. Identifying and removing this motivation is generally the simplest deterrent.

If your dog tends to bark at passing dogs outside the window, try closing the curtains or relocating their bed to a spot away from the view. In an apartment setting, you can play some music or turn on the TV to help drown out the outside noises.

You can also try to prevent your dog from accessing doors and windows while they are indoors. If the barking persists, you might consider placing your dog in a different room when other dogs walk by, especially during their training period.

Ignore the Barking

Ignoring your dog's barking (which can be hard!) can be very effective. This means that you do not give your pup any attention—no talking, touching, or even looking at them—while they bark. When they finally stop, reward them with a treat or affection. This teaches them that silence brings rewards.

Even if your dog barks for a long time, let the session end naturally and then reward the quiet behavior.

Desensitize Your Dog to Other Dogs

By gradually getting your dog used and exposed to the stimulus—other dogs, in this case—can help reduce barking.

You can try having a friend or relative with a dog on a leash walk towards you. When they approach, have them feed your dog treats. Stop the treats when the other dog walks away. This teaches your dog that staying calm and quiet around other dogs brings rewards.

Remember that desensitization can take weeks or even months, but consistency will pay off.

Use the “Quiet” Command

Teaching the "quiet" command can be very effective.

When your dog barks, say "quiet" and hold a treat in front of their face.

Praise them for being quiet and give your dog a treat. This helps them associate the command with positive reinforcement. You can then apply the "quiet" command in other situations to reinforce the behavior. Never scream or yell at your dog as it can scare your dog and confuse him.

Redirect Your Dog’s Attention

When your dog starts barking, redirect their attention to something else.

Commands like "sit" or "lie down" can help. Engage them with a favorite toy or ball.

Give them a chew toy. This keeps their mouth busy and prevents barking.

Make Sure your Dog Gets Plenty of Exercise

A well-exercised dog is less likely to bark out of boredom or frustration.

Daily physical and mental exercise are important for so many reasons and a tired dog is generally quieter and better behaved.

Your Dog Might Simply Bark Due to Anxiety & Fear

Sometimes, dogs bark at other dogs out of anxiety or fear.

Below are some ways to help reduce the anxiety and barking:

Create a Safe Space:

Make sure that your dog has a spot or space where he feels safe and comfortable space and a place to retreat to feel secure. This can be a crate, a specific room, or a cozy corner.

Use Calming Aids:

Consider using calming aids like pheromone diffusers, anxiety wraps, or natural supplements. These can help reduce your dog’s anxiety and, consequently, their barking.

Training Classes:

Enroll your dog in training classes. Group settings with other dogs can help your dog get used to being around other dogs in a controlled environment.

Monitor Your Own Behavior

Dogs often mirror their parent’s behavior. If you are anxious or tense when other dogs are around, your dog may pick up on that and react similarly.

Stay Calm and Relaxed:

Keep a calm demeanor when encountering other dogs. Your dog will take cues from you and learn to stay calm as well.

Be consistent with your training

Whichever method works the best for you – you need to stick with it. Try not to regress to old habits because your dog will too!

Get Professional Help to Address the Barking

If these methods don't work, consider hiring a professional trainer. They can offer personalized guidance and help you and your dog more effectively.

You can also try to find a behavioral expert or even your veterinarian might have ideas to help.

And, of course, you can enroll your dog in obedience classes. These classes can offer a structured socialization as well as training exercises to address the barking and other behavioral issues. 

And you need to be consistent with whatever training advice they give you when you are at home.

Positive Reinforcement

Always keep the training positive. Don't overuse treats to avoid weight gain; a hug or a "good boy" works wonders too.

By following these strategies and remaining patient and consistent, you can help reduce your dog's barking at other dogs.  It can take some time, but in the end, the results will be worth it!