How do I stop my dog from barking when someone comes to the door?

How to Stop Your Dog From Barking at the Door

Having your furry friend bark endlessly when a guest arrives at the door can be incredibly annoying. It can also be a source of stress and embarrassment when you have people over. Luckily, there are several approaches you can take to teach your dog not to bark when someone comes to the door:

1. Desensitization

This technique involves gradually introducing your dog to the stimulus that triggers their barking in controlled doses until they are no longer bothered by it. Start by having someone ring your doorbell and stand outside for a few seconds. Reward your pup for calm behaviour when the bell rings. Once your pup can stay relaxed during this step, move on to having them hear your guest come closer to the door, eventually allowing them to enter. Again, be sure to reward your pup for remaining calm.

2. Knock Before Entering

Establishing a routine can help your pup understand that you are in control of who enters your home. Each time someone comes to the door, have them knock and wait for you to let them in. This will help your pup become more used to seeing people arrive and know that they do not need to worry.

3. Positive Reinforcement

Rewarding your dog for calm behaviour is key to helping them learn not to bark. The moment they stop barking when the doorbell rings, throw them a treat and give them verbal praise. Practicing this in a calm, repetitive pattern should help your pup learn the desired behaviour.

4. Redirect the Attention

When you hear the doorbell start to ring, distract your pup with a fun activity, like a toy or game of fetch. This should help take their attention away from the stimulus that is causing them to bark.

5. Exercise

Making sure your pup has plenty of exercise throughout the day will help them stay calm when the doorbell rings. Aim to have your dog spend around 30 minutes of energy each day.

6. Create a Distraction

Playing music or the radio at a low volume in the background will help distract your pup when a guest arrives. Additionally, trying to add a few treats to the room they are in can help take their attention away from the door and onto you and the treats.

By taking these steps and being consistent in your approach, your pup should soon start to learn the desire behaviour. With enough practice and patience, you can help keep your pup calm and quiet when someone comes to the door.