How to Stop a Dog from Barking at Guests

Some dogs come off as mean when guests arrive, and they are truly hateful to the core. Others are simply misunderstood. They begin barking and growling, and all the while their tails wag or end up tucked between their legs. They are really more scared and insecure than mean when surprised by unfamiliar guests, but it is possible to stop the growling and barking with a few simple tricks, lots of love, and a great deal of patience. In time a dog that once seemed vicious toward guests might become an example of a well-behaved friendly dog.

Tell Guest Not to Try and Pet Him

One of the biggest mistakes guests make when trying to make friends with a barking, growling dog is getting too close too soon. When a dog is growling and barking, he is sending a very stern warning to stay away. If guests try to pet a barking, growling dog, they might pull back a bloody hand. Ask guests to hold off on trying to pet the animal upon arrival. Have patience with the barking and growling, and try to ignore the behavior. In time he might come around when he realizes that guests are really are not a threat to his family or his territory.

Change His Bad Behavior

When a dog is continually barking and growling at guests and it does not cease after a few minutes, some owners take the wrong approach. They end up raising their voice and creating more chaos. All the dog hears is excitement, and this does not stop the growling and barking. It only encourages more of the same.

If a dog acts mean upon meeting strangers and others not well-acquainted, have a leash on the dog, and be prepared to sternly lead him out of the room each time he begins barking and growling. This is a time-consuming and arduous method of behavioral training, but it works. The dog will become tired of being led away, and eventually he will associate leaving the room with barking and growling at guests. He will soon learn not to bark and growl when people enter the home.

When using the aforementioned method of behavioral training, even the most inhospitable pooch that once seemed mean will mellow out and behave as he should around guests. It will undoubtedly take time, but the barking and growling will end, and guests will feel more relaxed and comfortable when visiting the home.

Source: It's Me or the Dog with Victoria Stilwell