Action Prompting Barking

What is it?

There are some dogs that will bark at you to prompt you into action to gain something they want.  The purpose of this barking is to prompt you to take action on their behalf.  In some situations it may be desirable, for example, some people like their dog to bark to communicate a need to go outside and potty, however, with some dogs it can become an issue.

How to stop it?

​The keys to addressing action prompting barking are

1. Don’t do the desired thing when your dog barks
2. Clearly instigate desired activities when your dog is calm and not trying to prompt action from you. 
3. Teach appropriate ways to request things you don’t mind responding to, i.e. a request to go outside to potty.
4. Randomize your routines if possible, to avoid tying them to a set time (i.e. supper always at 5:00 pm exactly)

Clearly instigate activities
When your dog is resting calmly, tell him/her what is next i.e. “time for dinner”, “let’s go for a walk” etc.  THEN put your book down, get up, close your computer, etc.  When your dog learns that the relevant cue is you announcing the desired activity is next, he/she will stop being so excited when you get up without saying anything.

Teach appropriate ways to request things

Read More