Hey there, fellow pet parents! You know, we all love our fur babies, but let's face it, they can get a little... vocal when we're not around. Whether it's your neighbour telling you they heard your dog barking all day, or your guilty conscience because Fido was particularly loud when you stepped out to take the rubbish bins out, we’ve all wondered, “Is my dog barking when I’m not home?”
So let's dig into this! We'll explore how to know if your doggo is turning into a daytime opera star, why they might be doing it, and what you can do to bring peace to both your neighbourhood and your furry friend's vocal cords.
How to Tell If Your Dog Is Barking When You’re Not Home
Set up a Listening Device
You can use your phone or a baby monitor to listen in. Place it in an area where your dog spends most of their time when you’re not home. Don't forget to turn it on before you head out! When you get back, you can review the audio to see if there's any barking.
Ask Your Neighbours
Yep, it's a bit awkward, but asking your neighbours is often the most straightforward way to know. They can tell you not just whether your dog barks, but also when it usually happens, and for how long.
Record a Video
Set up a camera in a room where your dog frequents. You’ll not only capture audio but also see what triggers the barking.
Diagnosing the Problem
Separation Anxiety
Many dogs bark excessively when they're anxious about being alone.
Boredom
Dogs get bored too, especially if they don’t have enough toys or activities to keep them occupied.
Environmental Triggers
Noises like car horns, other dogs barking, or the postie arriving can cause some dogs to bark.
Solutions to the Problem
Calming Products
Try a calming product like Adaptil that releases comforting pheromones which can reduce anxiety-related barking.
Medication
For extreme cases, vet-prescribed medications like Zylkene can help calm your dog down. Always consult your vet before giving your dog medication.
Physical and Mental Exercise
A tired dog is a quiet dog. Make sure your pup has enough physical and mental stimulation to tire them out before you leave.
Training
Obedience training can help. Commands like "quiet" or "no bark" can be extremely useful.
Potential Negative Outcomes
For Your Dog
Excessive barking can lead to:
- Anxiety disorders
- Social isolation
- Vocal strain
For You
If your dog’s barking is causing a nuisance:
- Strained relationship with neighbours
- Potential fines for noise complaints
Summary
So, fellow pet parents, if you're worried about your dog's daytime performances, remember that the first step is to find out what’s going on. Then diagnose the reason behind the barking. Fortunately, there are several solutions available, from calming products to training and medication, that can help keep your dog's vocalization in check.
