My chihuahua suddenly barks at guests and on walks. How to stop?

Question

I recently adopted a 2 1/2 year old chihuahua. She was happy and smart AND didn’t bark. After Three months with us she is starting to bark at people when they come over. She has also started barking at people on the street during our walk. She was foster at a home with lots of little kids and large dogs. She is not very good with a NO command to stop barking but goo with NO for other things. Any suggestions or thoughts on how to stop this new habit? Thanks, Rainee. Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) | Female | 2 years and 5 months old | 7.5 lbs

Eryn Taormina, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hi there. I'm so sorry to read about Scarlet's troubles. There are a lot of reasons dogs can bark. They can be nervous or scared, protective of their families, excited in general, curious, etc. Lack of structure and exercise can make them more nervous as well. Some dogs respond to you teaching them a "bark" or "speak" command in a very quiet setting when there isn't anything making them bark. This shows them that you will tell them when it's time to be vocal. You can also try crating her in a kennel when people come over. Once everyone arrives you can let her out to socialize. The kennel isn't for punishment, but just her private, comfortable area where he can feel secure when the stressful situation occurs. Placing her in the kennel in a separate room can also help break her of the barking if you just let him "bark it out" without yelling or responding to her until she is quiet. Desensitizing to the stimulus can be helpful too. I am including a link that I think has some good information about how to help with the barking behavior. However, please keep in mind that any aggression like growling, snarling, biting, or lunging at other dogs or people, should be taken seriously, and I would not continue to try training without a professional. And that being said, the best way to get this behavior under control is to contact a reputable trainer in your area who can work with you. I hope you find this answer helpful! Best of luck!

My chihuahua suddenly barks at guests and on walks. How to stop?

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