A dog trainer has shared a game-changing tip for owners struggling with pets that bark at the doorbell and Royal Mail delivery drivers. Many dogs naturally bark when someone approaches the door, but a simple technique can help reduce this unwanted behaviour.
Common mistake to avoid
According to Adam Spivey, Director and Head Trainer of Southend Dog Training, many owners make the mistake of reacting with anger or frustration. Shouting at the dog to stop can inadvertently reinforce the bad habit. He explains: "All the dog sees is 'I'm frantic, you're frantic, I'm barking, you're shouting'. So your energy is matching, and it's making the situation worse."
Keeping calm is key
While it can be stressful when your dog barks, maintaining composure is essential. Spivey urges owners to try a specific approach: "Ring the doorbell throughout the day at random times, and you're going to send your dog to his bed when it goes," then reward them with treats. Repeat this until the dog consistently goes to its bed and stops barking. Once the dog is calm, it can leave the bed.
Structured desensitisation
The expert, who founded his company in 2012, elaborated: "For dogs exhibiting excessive barking and jumping when the doorbell rings, or someone is at the door, a structured approach is necessary. This involves desensitisation and counter-conditioning. Start by practising with someone knocking lightly and rewarding your dog for staying calm. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of the stimulus, always ensuring your dog remains below their threshold of reactivity."
Teaching an alternative behaviour to "frantic excitement"—such as going to a mat, sitting, or retrieving a toy—can make a significant difference. He recommends practising these commands regularly when there is no door activity, then gradually introducing them to real-life scenarios.
Understanding the behaviour
Spivey notes that barking at the door can stem from excitement, territorial instincts, fear, or learned habits. The key is to redirect that energy and encourage a more appropriate, positive response. Consistency is essential; when everyone in the household follows the same approach, patience and persistence can transform door-barking chaos into calm behaviour. If the behaviour is particularly challenging or progress stalls, seeking professional help is advisable.
