After a productive sheepherding session with Deuce, we returned home, and I got back to work in my office. Before long, I heard an unusual bark from him. Assuming he might be with John, whose office is on the opposite side of the house, I called out to check. John said Deuce wasn’t with him, so I went to investigate the source of the barking.
I found Deuce standing near the spot where his water bowl usually sits, looking up at me expectantly. That’s when it clicked—I’d forgotten to put the bowl back after cleaning it! His bark suddenly made perfect sense. It was his way of letting me know he needed water.
Dogs bark for countless reasons, and each bark serves as a form of communication.
Different barks carry different messages, and over time, we can learn to understand their meaning. For instance, we all recognize the infamous “someone’s at the door” bark. This is often the kind of barking that many people find frustrating—persistent and loud. Perhaps most dogs missed the memo that just two barks would suffice!
Part of the problem with door-related barking is that many dogs aren’t given a specific action to perform after alerting their owners. Left without guidance, they may continue barking, unsure of what’s expected of them.
Recently, we’ve been working on a new approach with Rio. Whenever she alerts us to someone at the door, we immediately acknowledge her for a job well done. From there, we guide her to her bed in the kitchen. Depending on the visitor and circumstances, she either gets a tasty treat or, if we’re finishing up a meal, the ultimate reward—a chance to lick a plate clean.
This routine has helped Rio become more at ease. By recognizing her efforts and redirecting her energy, she can fully relax after doing her part.
Teaching a dog not to bark excessively, especially when they’re naturally alert and protective, is no small task. It requires a consistent, calm approach. Yelling only agitates dogs further, so staying composed and following a set plan is essential.
Our plan involves treating the dogs occasionally for staying calmly on their beds until released. This positive reinforcement encourages them to settle down and builds good habits.
A Final Note
For most dogs, mastering calm behavior when someone is at the door can be challenging. But with patience, consistency, and clear communication, it’s absolutely achievable. Barking is an essential part of a dog’s life, and when we take the time to understand and guide their behavior, we create a more harmonious home for everyone—two-legged and four-legged alike.