Have you been told that your normally quiet pet is barking when you're not home? Read this quick guide on how to keep a dog from barking when left alone.

It can be frustrating and confusing to hear that our quiet, well-behaved pet becomes our neighbours' worst nightmare when we’re not at home. So, we’ve put together this quick guide on how to keep a dog from barking when left alone, which includes four ways to help you and your pet using natural techniques.

Why Is Your Pooch Barking?

First, you need to know the underlying cause of your pet's barking. Your fur buddies can’t always tell you how they feel, but they can show you. It may be time for a little undercover surveillance. Try recording your dog while you are out to determine how bad the barking is - take note of any triggers, like a postie.

Remember to prioritise your pet’s health as you would your own. A proper assessment is best, though there are some likely reasons for your dog’s behaviours, including boredom or separation anxiety.

Read our article, ‘How To Know If Your Dog Has Separation Anxiety’, here.

How To Keep A Dog From Barking When Left Alone

Below are four techniques that can help your dog reduce their barking while you are away. You may not see results overnight. It will take time for your pet to unlearn its behaviours, so be patient.

Give your dog lots of mental stimulation like toys and puzzles

Some dogs bark out of pure boredom. You can’t always be there to throw a ball or battle in a tug-a-war with their favourite toy, or your favourite pants, but you can ensure they have plenty of mental stimulation to keep them entertained. Whether they are inside or outside, toys and treat-based puzzles are a great way to keep their focus.

Our chew balls are strong and sturdy and can hide a lucky treat. And our Bubble Pawz Sticky Licky Mat is made to keep your pets busy and preoccupied. Check out our range of accessories for dogs here.

Ensure your dog gets lots of exercise

Lack of exercise can also lead to boredom. Younger dogs and certain breeds require more exercise than others, so it’s important to know your pet’s needs and ensure those needs are being met. Take them on frequent walks and the next time the family goes on an outing, why not take your furry family member with you? Dogs love to explore and it’s a great way to relieve their anxiety and boredom.

Fill your dog’s space with familiar sounds

When you aren’t home to reassure them, your pet can feel threatened and fearful of unknown stimuli. One easy way to avoid this is to replicate the environment they are used to when you are home. Is the radio usually on? Leave it on when you go out. Is the house usually filled with chaotic noise? The sound of the television can substitute for a full house.

Calm and relax your pet with essential oils

Did you know that some essential oil fragrances are believed to produce pheromones that remind your pooch of their mother and may reduce their anxiety? Used in a spritz, a room vapour, or in your pet’s grooming routine, essential oils are a great way to naturally assist your efforts to keep your dog from barking when left alone. And it smells pretty good too. Just remember to never place oil directly on your pet’s skin.

If a little aromatherapy for your pet sounds like a great idea (and of course it does), check out our range of bath bombs for dogs made from natural and organic ingredients. At Bubble Pawz®, we’ve created a range of dog-friendly treats, toys, and grooming products. Please, click here to check out our products. If you need more advice on how to keep a dog from barking when left alone, our experts can help.