Some breeds of dogs, like the Chihuahua and Cairn Terrier, are known to be ‘barkers’. And there are also those that bark because they like the sound of their own voices. But when it becomes a persistent habit, pet owners will realize that they are facing a challenge. In order to address the problem, there is a need to identify what is causing your pet to behave this way.

You are reinforcing the behavior

When you give attention to your dog each time he barks, he will know that by barking, he will eventually get what he wants. He will keep on engaging in the behavior if you continue on reinforcing, intentionally or unintentionally, it.

Fear or anxiety

A dog that is afraid of something may bark out because of fear and anxiety. You will know when your dog is ‘fear-barking’ because his hackles are raised and he growls and snarls while barking.

Perceived threat

Dogs have strong protective instincts and when there is a perceived threat, they won’t hesitate to launch into persistent barking to protect members of the pack or their territory.

If you are having problems with your pet’s behavior, talk with your Frisco, TX vet.

For more details, click this link: http://planotxvets.com/