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An Effective Barking Deterrent The Humble Water Pistol?
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Yes, that's right - A Water Pistol!
This method of barking deterrent uses a spray of water or lemon juice directed into your dog's mouth each time he barks and, if used correctly and timely, it will stop your dog from barking.
Although this practice may sound cruel, it isn't.
Using a spray as a barking deterrent won't harm your dog.
The spray isn't meant to be a punishment, it's meant to startle your dog into silence, literally interrupting his barking.
You can use an ordinary water gun or spray bottle for this method, just fill it with water, lemon juice or a combination of both and do the following:
Each time your dog barks, go to him and spray his mouth with water or lemon juice, and say the words, 'Be Quiet', in a firm but controlled voice.
When your dog is silent, wait a couple of seconds and prasie him with, 'Good Quiet', and give him a treat.
If your dog begins barking again, re-use the spray.
When using a spray to deter your dog from barking, please note the following points:
When spraying, take care to avoid your dog's eyes.
The spray must be immediate so that he associates it to his barking.
If your garden is large, and you can't reach your dog in time to stop his barking, don't be tempted to use the spray after he's stopped barking as he won't be able to link the two and won't understand why your'e unhappy with him; this will not be an effective barking deterrent.
Be consistent in your actions and use the same command each time you spray him, as this will help to reinforce his training.
Never call your dog to you to spray or punish him, or he'll think he's being punished for coming to you and that will only serve to confuse him.
If you think your dog is frightened of the spray gun or bottle, please find an alternative barking deterrent to interrupt his flow of barking, for example, throw him a ball, or his favourite toy - follow this link for more methods to stop barking dogs.
If your dog is lying quietly in your garden, occasionally reward him for this - he'll soon come to realise that quiet behaviour is best for everyone!
