The short answer
Dogs bark to alert, seek attention, release boredom, express fear or cope with being alone. Most nuisance barking improves with more exercise, puzzle feeding, blocking window views and teaching a quiet cue. Barking from fear or separation needs a vet or qualified trainer, not a collar.
Common causes
- Alert barking at passers-by.
- Boredom and under-exercise.
- Attention-seeking.
- Fear or anxiety.
- Separation distress when left alone.
What to try first
- More exercise and sniff walks.
- Puzzle feeding: KADTC adjustable puzzle feeder stretches meals up to an hour.
- Block window views with film or furniture changes.
- Teach a 'quiet' cue with rewards.
- Use a camera to see when barking happens.
When to get help
If your dog barks, howls or destroys things only when alone, talk to your vet about separation distress.
SafetyDon't use bark collars on dogs barking from fear or separation distress.
Products mentioned
Questions readers ask
Will more exercise reduce barking?
Often, especially for boredom barking.
Should I use a bark collar for separation barking?
No; seek help from a vet or qualified trainer.