Dogs are certainly man’s best friend, and while it's a joy to come back to them after a long day at work, their barks can quickly become a major problem, especially when residing in an apartment. There is nothing more frustrating than being the cause of your neighbor's interrupted sleep or their fury. Fortunately, there are a few simple tips that you can put in place to help your furry friends calm their barks and keep peace in the neighborhood.
Creating a habit of obedience training can be very helpful. It is much easier to train a young puppy than an older dog, but it is never too late to start training your furry companion. Rewards such as treats, toys, or a little cuddle and pat on the back can help reinforce good behavior while working on correct the bad behavior. Training helps him understand what is expected of him, and what he should do in certain situations.
There are a variety of toys on the market that are designed to keep your dog occupied. When you're not home, it might be tough for your furry companion to cope with loneliness and they may decide to make some noise. Investing in toys such as puzzle toys, chew toys, or interactive toys can help reduce your dog's barking by providing a healthy outlet for pent up energy.
Dogs naturally seek tents of their own, and a crate can provide that sense of shelter and security they may need. It's important to be patient in introducing a crate to your furry friend so that he can acclimate to it naturally. Once your dog is comfortable with being in the crate, he may see it as a den, and it can be an excellent place for him to seek refuge when he feels stressed or lonely.
A bored dog is more likely to bark excessively, so it's essential to keep him occupied. One way to do this is to take them out for a regular walk or jog. This not only provides exercise, but it also helps them become more familiar with the sights and sounds of the outside world. Keeping things such as playing fetch, hide-and-seek and taking them to dog parks can also help prevent excessive barking.
A dog can bark excessively when they feel anxious, fearful, or threatened; identify what triggers your dog's barking. Is it when your neighbor opens their door, or when they hear noises from outside? Once you identify the root cause of your dog's barking, you'll know what drives it and can work on potential solutions such as introducing anti-anxiety medication or even playing white noise to distract them.
The above tips can help dog owners prevent their furry friends from barking excessively while in an apartment. Dogs can be trained to stop excessive barking, or they can be occupied through the use of toys or other means. It is also important to identify the root cause of barking so that a more targeted solution can be implemented. With a little patience and consistency, you can enjoy the peace and quiet of your apartment. If you're looking for apartments for rent in Ft Myers, FL, contact Millennium Apartments today to schedule a personal tour.