Puppies bark for many reasons, and while it’s natural for them to vocalize, excessive barking can be a major source of frustration for owners and their neighbors. Many owners attempt to curb this behavior by using methods that are often ineffective or even harmful, such as the “can of pennies” technique. This article provides a more humane and effective two-pronged approach to address puppy barking, focusing on prevention and teaching alternative behaviors.
Why the “Can of Pennies” Method Fails
The suggestion to use a can of pennies involves startling the puppy with a loud noise when they bark. While this might temporarily suppress the barking, it’s a flawed strategy for several reasons. Firstly, it teaches the puppy to fear the consequence of barking, rather than addressing the underlying cause. This can lead to a suppressed emotional state, where the puppy may stop barking but is also less likely to communicate important needs, such as needing to go outside or alerting to genuine danger. Secondly, this method can create new behavioral problems by associating the startling noise with other aspects of the environment, leading to generalized anxiety or avoidance. In essence, it exchanges one issue for potentially several more significant ones.
The Two-Pronged Approach to Behavior Change
Effective behavior modification, especially concerning barking, requires a comprehensive strategy that involves two key components: preventing the unwanted behavior and installing an alternative, desirable behavior. Simply rewarding quiet moments while allowing barking to occur unchecked is insufficient.
1. Preventing Unwanted Barking
Understanding why puppies bark is the first step in prevention. The common reasons include seeking attention, alerting to their environment, or due to boredom.
- For Attention: Continue to ignore barking that is solely for attention. Consistency is key here.
- Environmental Triggers: To minimize reactions to external stimuli, use strategies like white noise machines or visual blockers on windows. For example, applying wax paper to windows can still allow light to enter while obscuring the view of squirrels or passing pedestrians.
- Mental Stimulation: A common culprit for barking is a lack of mental engagement. Provide your puppy with challenging, interactive toys that dispense treats or can be filled with enticing scents like fish or coconut oil. Training a puppy not to pull when walking requires similar dedication to mental engagement. Ensuring your puppy has enough mental stimulation is crucial; without it, even the best training efforts may fall short.
- Physical Exercise: Adequate physical exercise and opportunities for jaw exercise through appropriate chew toys are also vital. A tired puppy is often a quieter puppy.
2. Installing Alternative Behaviors
While it’s unrealistic to expect a puppy to never vocalize, you can teach them appropriate ways to communicate or offer behaviors that earn rewards.
- Reward Quietness: Actively reward your puppy for being quiet in situations where they might typically bark. This includes when they are alone in their crate, when a trigger like a squirrel appears, or when someone approaches the house. Crucially, also reward them when they stop barking, reinforcing the transition to quiet. This teaches them that being calm and thoughtful about how to get your attention is more effective than incessant barking.
- Train “Auto-Behaviors”: These are behaviors your dog can offer proactively to gain your attention or a reward, rather than barking for it. A classic example is training your dog to sit to say please. This redirects their energy into a polite request.
Conclusion: A Humane and Effective Path Forward
Addressing puppy barking requires patience, consistency, and a commitment to positive, force-free methods. By implementing a two-pronged approach that focuses on preventing the behavior and teaching desirable alternatives, you can effectively manage barking without resorting to harsh techniques. Investing in your puppy’s mental and physical well-being, coupled with consistent training, will lead to a happier, quieter companion and a more peaceful home. For more insights into puppy management, consider resources on how to keep my puppy from jumping or how to train puppy to pee on pad.
