Is it possible to train an old dog to stop barking at visitors?

Question

I have an 11 year old husky/lab mix (adopted from a shelter about a year and a half ago), who barks at the doorbell, a knock at the door, if anyone comes in, anything really. All he does is bark for a few minutes usually and then calms down. Is there a way to train this out of him at his age? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 90 lbs

Jessica Desrosiers · Accepted Answer

Old dogs can certainly learn new tricks! It may take some time, as often the thing Chester is barking out is probably more interesting and rewarding than any distractions. He is also being rewarded when the item he is barking out "runs away". Looking up YouTube videos on positive reinforcement and barking can give you some good ideas. Distracting him, moving him to a different room when he is triggered by something to bark, rewarding calm and quiet behavior with treats or pets from the person entering the home, and even teaching "speak" so you can then teach "quiet" can all help as well! It is often something that takes a little time or patience, but can be changed.

Is it possible to train an old dog to stop barking at visitors?

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