Shaped by Dog with Susan Garrett Training Tips From Susan: How Barking Can Turn Into A Reinforced Habit Without You Even Realizing
Jul 18, 2025
Uncover the surprising ways barking can become a reinforced habit for your dog without you noticing. Learn how attention and treats might contribute to this behavior. Discover actionable strategies to manage and reduce unwanted barking effectively. Plus, get insights on teaching your dog simple skills for better focus and engagement.
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Barking Becomes Unintended Reinforcement
- Barking in dogs often becomes a reinforced habit without owners realizing it.
- Various forms of attention or environmental changes can unintentionally reinforce barking behavior.
Tennis Ball Reinforces Barking
- Susan shared a story where a woman gave her barking Border Collie a tennis ball to quiet it.
- This action unintentionally reinforced the dog's barking behavior instead of discouraging it.
Avoid Attention Reinforcing Barking
- Avoid giving your dog attention like looking, snapping fingers, or yelling to stop barking.
- These responses can reinforce barking by rewarding it with your attention, even if it stops momentarily.