Barking among dogs is considered natural because it is one of their forms of communication with the other one being body language. But when barking becomes excessive such as the dog barking at all hours of the day and night for no apparent reason, then it becomes a considerable issue for both the pet owners and their neighbours. Fortunately, there are two main methods of stopping the negative behaviour, namely, dog behaviour training and ventriculocordectomy, a debarking operation.
Between the two methods, experts strongly advice using dog training tools and techniques first because of the significant improvements made in the pets overall behaviour in just a few weeks. Surgery should be considered as a last resort but even then, pet owners are well-advised to think twice because of the high risks for post-surgery complications.
In the following sections, we shall discuss the basics of dog behaviour training and ventriculocordectomy. You should then be able to apply the techniques in the former and discuss your options in the latter with your pets veterinarian.
Dog Behaviour Training
The first step in successful dog behaviour training is to identify the cause of excessive barking. Since every dog has a unique personality depending on its age, breed and natural disposition, among other factors, you must closely observe it. You should take note of when, where and why it barks before jumping into conclusions especially since your dog may have a valid reason to be barking in the first place.
When you have identified the cause, you can then start working on removing it or getting your dog away from it. You are basically setting your pet for success by removing the stimuli for its excessive barking. For example, if you observe that he is barking whenever the doorbell rings, then remove it.
Keep these basic dog obedience training tips in mind, too:
Stop yelling at your dog whenever it starts its barking session. You are giving him attention, which is better than nothing at all. Instead, use a firm, authoritative yet gentle voice to say, Be quiet!
Use positive reinforcement techniques such as words of encouragement, favourite treats, and pats on the head. Whenever your pet stops barking at your command, give it positive reinforcement but dont overdo it either. Be sure to match the reward with the action so that the appropriate association can be made.
Provide your dog with sufficient amount of playtime and exercise. Both boredom and excess energy can make your dog bark incessantly just to amuse itself or to use up its energy.
Use non-toxic anti-bark collars like citronella spray.
If possible, you may also enrol your pet in a dog obedience class to make the process faster and easier. No, professional dog trainers are not licensed to perform ventriculocordectomy, in case you are wondering about it.
Debarking Surgery
When you have done everything to stop your dogs excessive barking, you may want to consider ventriculocordectomy - or perhaps not considering the following post-surgery complications:
Excessive bleeding
Proliferation of scar tissues particularly in the airways, thus, leading to breathing difficulties
Secondary infections
The bottom line: Ventriculocordectomy may seem like an easy way out but your pet is better off with a basic yet effective dog training program.
