We were worried about a yappy dog and how our neighbors would react before getting Bernie. It has turned out well because I think we had a strategy in mind from the start. He are some tips from what worked for us:
1) The couple of times Bernie initially barked for attention he was ignored and quickly learned that he'll get what he wants by being a good quiet boy. What he'll do now is run up to us (we can tell he's bouncy with excitement) and show us that he's sitting - "now please play with me". It is so cute - and quiet.
2)We decided from day one that Bernie would sleep in his own bed somewhere outside the bedroom. We figured that this would help him be independent and make him less anxious when we left for work. As it turns out he has not bark while we're away.
3)We purposely avoid starting little games by not excitedly repeating words like "WHO'S THAT?, WHO'S THAT" whenever the doorbell or telephone rings. Instead we stay calm whenever there are loud noises, doorbells, etc. Not that we do it much anyway, but we also make sure not to blast music or the tv in order for him to keep a calm demeanor (like his surrounding environment).
4)We also decided from day one not to feed him from the table so he doesn't whine, bark, and beg for scraps. We eat and he barely notices. If anything he goes and munches on his own kibble whenever he does notice that we're eating.
I'm sure you'll find plenty more advice using the search feature of this website. I can't say with 100% certainty that this "strategy" will work for every dog but it seems to have worked for Bernie. It may sound strict but I think it makes for a happy healthy dog when balanced with lots of love and rewards at the same time. Good Luck!
