How do I calm my dog, and stop its constant barking?

My dog barks at the smallest noise.
How do I calm my dog, and stop its constant barking?

CHENNAI: My dog barks at the smallest noise. She is hyper alert and my friends tell me it is because she is a terrier mix. But people in my apartment have politely told me that it can be annoying.  How can I calm her down, especially when I am away at work?

Barking from hyper alert dogs can be signs of boredom or fear or dominance. Whatever the reason, this will be bad for you and your dog especially in an apartment. However, this can be overcome by consistent corrective action from your part and de-sensitizing him to the noises.

Terriers were originally bred for hunting and over time became popular house dogs in apartments for their relatively smaller sizes. Due to their hunting genes, they need to be well exercised to overcome the physical reserve of energy that would otherwise be expended during hunting. Do not hesitate to give them a good long walk or jog to tire them out as despite their small size, they have a lot of energy. A tired dog is a happy dog and hence will not really bother about small disturbances around him.

Secondly, getting your dog used to the noises around him is critical for him to accept them as regular non-threatening sounds. This de-sensitising your dog can be achieved by practicing a few commands from the basic obedience training in the presence of noise or other distractions. There are also some audio recordings readily available for training purposes or you could make one yourself and and make your dog listen to this, while you are working nearby. Since you are not paying any attention to the noise, he will learn that you, as his master, does not want him reacting to these sounds unnecessarily.
Last but not the least, ramp up on your leadership behaviour towards your dog. Establish rules around the house and all members in the house follow the rules strictly.

Correct your dog when he tries to bark at random sounds and ensure that you show him that you are in control. Handle visitors to the house by making him move away from the door and letting him greet them only after you have decided to. Make him wait and work for his food so that he learns to respect your command.
Consult a professional trainer if the problems persist or if you simply would like the help.

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