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How do I stop my senior dog from barking excessively at nothing?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 14 years and 6 months old | 20 lbs

My dog won't stop barking. He barks before a walk, after a walk, before being fed, after eating, and all the time. I don't know how he doesn't get tired of it. He's 13 years old. He's always been a barker but usually at someone walking by or coming in the house; now it seems to be at nothing. He can't even see the street.I'm losing sleep because he's so loud! Online it says don't give them what they want, so should I stop walking and feeding him? That doesn't seem right. I don't know what to do.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Rebecca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 14th, 2017

At Tommys age I would consider that he may have some type of cognitive dysfunction or senility issue causing increase in barking. I would recomend a veterinarian visit for a senior wellness check up and discuss his behavior as there are medications and diet that can help if it is cognitive. Medications and a neuro diet have helped my own senior dog to sleep through the night again as he was up at all hours barking, so I know your pain. ;). Good luck.

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