How to Stop Your Dog from Barking at the Doorbell

By dlmiller

Instructions

Getting used to the doorbell

Step 1:
Choose a word, such as “quiet” or “hush” to use as a command to let your dog know he should stop making noise. Pick a word that you don’t use often in regular conversation, as this might confuse the dog.
Step 2:
Stand or kneel next to your dog, with treats in your hand or pocket.
Step 3:
Have a friend ring the doorbell once.
Step 4:
Ignore the dog’s barking. Tell your dog to “sit” or “lie down”. If your dog knows a “settle” command or a “quiet” command, these would work even better. On your first few tries, your dog might ignore you or take a long time to obey you. That’s OK. Be patient and wait until he does.
Step 5:
Say “Good quiet” when your dog stops barking, and reward him with a treat. This is a great training exercise to use a clicker with, if you are used to clicker training. Click immediately when the dog stops barking, and treat. Then say “good quiet” as he eats his treat.
Step 6:
Repeat these steps until it takes less time for your dog to obey your command and stop barking. Eventually, your dog will begin to associate being quiet after the doorbell rings with being calm and getting treats. When he is able to bark much less or not at all, try naming the “quiet” command.
Step 7:
Tell your dog “quiet” when the doorbell rings. Then treat your dog and say “good quiet” when your dog obeys. Again, this might take some time and patience.

For overly-excited or unruly dogs

Step 1:
Teach your dog the “settle” command if he is having trouble calming down and doesn’t seem to be improving with practice.
Step 2:
Massage your dog, paying particular attention to the scruff of his neck and behind his ears.
Step 3:
Watch for signs your dog is calming down. He might lie down or yawn. His ears and tail will become more relaxed, and he will not look tense.
Step 4:
Say “good settle” and offer a treat when your dog is calm.
Step 5:
Repeat this exercise, but start saying “settle” before you start massaging. Your dog will need less massaging and eventually will be able to settle on command.
Step 6:
Use the “settle” command while teaching your dog not to bark at the doorbell.

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