In the wild, dogs have their own method of going about things their way.  But if you want your dog to be a well-behaved pet and to live in your home with you, you must teach him the human way of living.  Specifically, you have to teach your dog to redirect his normal and natural dog behaviors.  Failing to learn where to relieve himself, what to chew, when to bark, when to jump up and where to dig are the top reasons why the relationship fails and people give up their dogs.  Fortunately, these techniques are so simple to teach that you and your dog are guaranteed to have a long and happy life together.

Yard Barker: Barking dogs are one of the most common complaints of urban and suburban neighbors.  A dog that is left outside will alert to all the visual and auditory stimuli.  Dogs are usually relegated to the yard because they are not house trained or chew toy trained.  If that is the case, you need to housetrain and chew toy train your dog.  Take him out from the backyard and bring him into your home!  Giving your dog a few well-stuffed chew toys is the easiest and most effective solution.  This way he has something to think about other than barking. A well-stuffed chew toy will keep your dog busy for a while (this means no time for barking).  If you need to, put his food bowl away and only feed him from his chew toys.  This way, you will keep him very busy!

Attention Seeking Barker: When you are relaxed and in a good mood, tie your dog to a secure spot in the house.  Stand or sit next to your dog and ignore him.  When he barks, move away.  When he stops, even for just a moment, move closer. Your dog will soon realize that barking means you leave and quiet means you return.  When he is quiet for 10 to 15 seconds, approach and praise him followed by a treat.

Owner-Absent Barker: What if your dog barks because he is bored and stressed when left at home alone?  Unfortunately, our canine friends are often left alone for long periods of time.  Being social animals, it is tough for dogs to understand why their family leaves them.  However, you can teach your dog to tolerate and even enjoy your absence.   First, teach your dog to spend time alone when you are home.  Most dog owners make the mistake of spending all the time they are home with their dog at their side.  While this may seem to be a kind and loving act, it only serves to make matters worse.  Your dog will become used to constant companionship and be more likely to fall apart when you leave.  Instead, teach your dog to enjoy quiet moments by himself while you are home, so he will feel more confident when you are not there.  Frequently and for short periods of time, confine your dog to another room, his crate or on a tie-down and give him a well-stuffed chew toy to occupy his time.