How do I stop my dog barking at other dogs?

536058b8-3d4a-4ae5-b679-e10f9e1f620a

If your dog tends to bark when he sees other dogs, then Trainer Tony Cruse may be able to help!

Q) I have an issue with my Miniature Schnauzer, who's two years old. For as long as I can remember he's always barked when he sees other dogs (not aggressively) but once he gets to them, he stops. How can I make myself the pack leader as I'm guessing he thinks he is at the moment?

A) Trainer Tony Cruse says: It is not about being pack leader. There is some doubt that dogs form fixed packs and, even if they did, would they consider a two-legged species as part of their pack?

Far from being in charge, it sounds like your dog is uncertain about how to approach another dog. Did he ever learn? When he barks, do not shout at him or speak to him; gently and quietly guide him away from what he is barking at.

Content continues after advertisements

A long-term method is to keep your distance and as soon as he spots another dog, but before he barks, feed him (chicken/sliced hot dog). Let the other dog go past and then stop giving the food.

On each occasion, if he sees another dog he gets food, so eventually he will look to you for a tasty treat. You then get focus; he feels good and not as anxious. The barking should then become less intense. Other dogs mean snack time, not things to bark at.