Why does My dog bark so much for no reason

Unless you own a Basenji, also known as the barkless dog, you can’t expect a dog to never bark.  Excessive barking, however, can become a nuisance and is usually a sign that something is disturbing your dog. Figuring out what’s causing it is the first step to finding a solution. 

There are several reasons a dog finds the need to be overly vocal.  Here are a few of the top ones:

Protecting their territory.  Any animal or person coming into a space a dog considers his or her territory is the number one reason dogs bark and bark and bark.  You’ll know if this is the trigger when anyone or anything new enters the scene, especially if your dog appears aggressive while barking. 

Fear.  Dogs often bark when they’re startled or feel afraid.  This can happen anywhere and for some dogs is more common outside of the home. 

A greeting or a signal it’s time to play.  We’ve all come home to a happy dog who barks and does zoomies around the room.  It’s a joyful reunion and signals that it’s time to play.  These happy barks are usually accompanied by tail wagging and jumping up to get closer to you. 

Loneliness or boredom.  When you bring a dog home, you become its pack.  Dogs left alone for long periods of time can become sad and bored and will bark to show their displeasure. 

Separation anxiety.  For some dogs, being left by their owner isn’t just a sad event, it causes acute anxiety.  Dogs barking excessively due to separation anxiety often pace, become destructive, have accidents in the house, and show signs of depression like lethargy and loss of appetite.  If you dog is showing either of those symptoms, take them to your  veterinarian as soon as possible for an evaluation. 

Compulsive barking.  These barkers just like the sound of their own voice and want to share it with the world.  Often compulsive barking is also accompanied by other annoying behaviors such as running in circles or along a fence line. 

Don’t worry, with a little consistency and work, things will get quieter. 

Never yell at a barking dog.  The dog thinks you’re just joining in.  Never discipline a bark with a bark of your own.  Speak calmly and firmly at a normal volume when asking your dog to stop.

Train your dog to understand the word “quiet.”  Dogs understand a lot, but “shut up” is a pretty sophisticated phrase for them.  Instead teach them the command “quiet” and reward them when they fall silent after hearing it. 

Ignore the barking.  If your dog is barking to get your attention, don’t give it.  He or she will quickly realize their manipulation isn’t working.  Offer praise when they stop barking. 

Desensitize your dog to the stimulus.  If your dog barks at the mailman every day, give them a stern “quiet” command and then reward them when they stop barking.  Every time the mailman comes around, put a little more time in between the quiet command and the treat. 

Keep your dog tired.  Getting sufficient exercise and play time is critical in teaching a dog to be quiet.  Take a nice long walk together before you head out to work.  Unwind with a trip to the dog park.  Play fetch throughout the day.  Keeping your dog happy and tired from play time is the best way to curb excessive barking. 

If all else fails, hire a professional dog trainer.  If your efforts prove unsuccessful, it might be time to turn over the task to a pro. Reaching out to a certified dog trainer can help your dog learn new behaviors and help you enjoy some more peace and quiet. 

Be sure to ask your vet if you suspect a medical issue. 

For instance, if your dog barks incessantly to go out because it can’t hold its bladder, there could be a medical issue behind the noise.  Schedule an appointment with Jacksonville Community Pet Clinic for a checkup.  One of our experienced veterinarians can spot any issues that might be the underlying cause for excessive barking and treat them, giving both you and your dog relief.