Dear Critter Corner:
I have noticed that our pup has started to bark at other dogs while on leash, but is fine once they are able to get to the dog or if they are off leash. My pup is a large breed and the barking looks scary to the other owners and dogs. How do I stop them from barking at the dogs?
This is a common problem that many owners are faced with. In an effort to socialize their pups, many owners allow the pup to pull or go toward any dog or person to say hi. As the pup grows and becomes stronger, the owner now tends to restrain them and this creates frustration in the dog that escalates to barking.
If you have a new pup or even an older one, teach them impulse control around other dogs and people before you allow them to say hi. This can be as easy as a having your pup ask for permission in the form of a ‘sit’ or ‘check in’ and then being given the okay to say hi.
If your pup has been practicing barking at others for some time, you may need to work on breaking it down into easier pieces for them. This can be done with the help of a friend and their pup. Have your friend stationary at a distance your pup is able to look at them and not bark. You will now work on decreasing your distance by taking a step or two toward them, have your pup check in, mark the absence of a bark with a ‘yes’ and follow with a treat. Repeat until you are able to get close enough to release your pup to go say hi. If your pup barks, take a few steps away and start the process over.
If you are still having problems or would like some extra help, you can schedule a 1:1 Consultation with one of our behaviorists.