Teach your dog to SPEAK or bark on command. When the dog does this, give a treat. Then, when they have mastered SPEAK, teach QUIET. So, command the dog to SPEAK and then immediately say QUIET and give the dog a treat for not barking.
My Teddy was a crazy barker and I mean he would bark at the thermostat clicking, leaves blowing, people outside, etc. He doesn't do this anymore because he knows that when he is commanded to be QUIET, he will be rewarded with a treat which is much more rewarding than the bark. I have never had to scare the bark out of him. He listens to commands out of reward and respect. It did take about a year, though. Patience is key!
Good luck! |