The Dogs Trust has advised dog owners to place a note on their front door asking visitors and delivery drivers to phone instead of knocking when they arrive, in a bid to reduce barking.
According to the charity, barking is a normal way for dogs to express their feelings, wants and needs, and is not simply a case of bad behaviour. It explains that some breeds bark due to historic working roles, such as herding and guarding, while personality, learnt experiences, genetics and health status also play a part.
Additional tips to reduce barking
Alongside the door note, owners can arrange for parcels to be collected from a designated local site, use a radio to mask the sound of approaching vehicles and voices, and reward calm and quiet behaviour whenever it is seen.
Other suggestions include installing an external letterbox, blocking the dog’s view of people approaching with stair gates, blinds, curtains or frosted window film, moving furniture that gives a vantage point, creating a safe space, and tracking parcel deliveries to prepare ahead of time.
Royal Mail safety advice
Royal Mail has also issued safety advice, stating: “Even the most lovable dog can be a danger to postal workers. Dogs are territorial by nature and if they feel they need to protect their family, they can become unpredictable. Please help us to deliver your post safely by keeping your dog secure and out of the way before the post person arrives.”
When to seek veterinary advice
Dogs Trust notes that a change in a dog’s behaviour can be linked to physical health, even without clear signs of pain or illness. Veterinary advice should be sought if a dog suddenly becomes more sensitive to sound, if barking may be connected to a medical issue such as canine dementia, worsening eyesight, age-related arthritis or joint pain, if the dog is barking due to worry or anxiety, or if barking has suddenly begun as new behaviour.
Seeing a vet is a good first step, as they can check for health problems that may be causing the behaviour and treat them if needed. If the dog is healthy, training and behaviour support will be easier and more effective. Owners are advised to take videos or notes about the dog’s behaviour to the appointment and to ask for extra time to discuss the behaviour before the physical check.
If owners are still struggling, Dogs Trust urges them to contact its free Behaviour Support Line for a callback from an expert or to book a support package. The charity says it helps thousands of dog owners every year.
