I'M often asked at the surgery about barking. Although it's a normal part of dog behaviour it can be

The most common cause is excitement. We all know how a dog reacts to exciting times by barking, jumping up and down and generally rushing around.

It may be that this type of dog isn't getting enough exercise or hasn't been trained properly.

They need firm obedience training so you can let your dog know when it is acceptable to bark.

Most libraries have a list of dog training classes and chatting to other dog owners may be a valuable source of information. You then need to work out how you would like your dog to behave when they would normally bark.

You can get them to sit, for example, or go to their bed. The most important thing, however, is to remain calm. Any shouting will make things much worse, as the dog will think you're excited as well.

You also need to have a look at whatever makes your dog excited. For example if preparing for a walk makes your dog go over the top, get all the items together such as the lead, coat and pooper scooper and then put them away if your dog gets too excited. Only go out for the walk when he is calm.

Or may be that your dog is barking because of frustration or boredom.

Ignored

Attention seeking barkers always make a fuss when they feel they're being ignored. So they'll bark when you're on the telephone or watching TV. This is why you shouldn't shout at barking dogs.

Not only does it reinforce the excitement group it also gives rewards to the attention-seeking barkers. You need to make sure this group is well trained and that they get the best of attention. Around two hours a day of games and training should fulfil these needs.

The barker may also hate being left alone. They may find it very stressful and they cope with this anxiety through barking. Trying to help them with this takes time. You need to find a room in the house that they find reassuring and then leave them for a couple of minutes. Come back into the room and reward them with attention when they don't bark. Lengthen the time slowly and think about reassuring your dog through having the TV on, the curtains drawn or soothing music.

The final group, the guard dog, is doing what you want them to do. They are protecting your property. However it can become a problem with invited guests.

With this type of dog the owner needs to be in complete control. Good obedience training will help and the dog should only be rewarded with a tasty treat when they obey a specific command.

With time and trouble any barking problem can usually be overcome and good luck to all of you who are trying to tackle this. One thing is certain if you succeed it will make sure you get on better with your neighbours and visitors.