Excessive barking in dogs can be very distressing for the dogís owner and also for the neighbourhood. Loud and incessant dog barking is noise pollution which can cause tension with neighbours and can become an issue with the local council. Many dog behaviour experts and veterinarians diagnose possible causes such as boredom, frustration and anxiety. In many cases dogs are expected to live in conditions which are not conducive to canine wellbeing.
Dogs are social animals and regard the humans in their environment as part of the pack, they thrive on human and canine social interactions. Many dogs are expected to live in restrictive environments often with no human or canine company during the day. Some dogs do not get enough exercise and are expected to stay quiet in a small space for many hours at a time. These conditions are not adequate to ensure canine wellbeing and in this situation dogs may become frustrated and bark excessively as a symptom of boredom and anxiety.
When a dog begins to bark excessively two problems ensue, the noise pollution problem which effects the neighbourhood and neighbourly relations and the welfare of the dog. The welfare of the dog is further compromised because some local councils have laws which may insist on the removal or destruction of the dog. Many dog owners in this situation are very stressed and resort to punishment of the dog as the first strategy for dealing with the problem. However it is important to focus on the welfare of the dog in order to retrain the dog with positive reinforcement strategies. A dog behaviour specialist or veterinarian can help educate dog owners about the conditions which are necessary to produce a well adjusted dog.
By www.vetstop.com