Teach your dog not to react to the doorbell

Dog owners know that the doorbell can cause chronic barking. Dogs respond to the sound of the doorbell or knocking at their door as a way to alert them. Although we understand that our courageous canines want us to be safe, it is dangerous for them to react to strangers knocking on the door. Nobody likes to listen to dogs bark furiously or get jumped on.

Teach your dog not to bark at the door

Dogs respond to stimuli from outside because they want to protect their territory. Dogs barking at postal workers is an absurdity. Many pet owners have been subject to evictions for unruly behaviour and aggression.

What’s the solution? These are the steps to take to stop the bark.

1. Ring bells at random times and knock on surfaces. This is to get your dog used to the sound of knocking and ringing. To acclimate your dog, knock on doors and walls at random times. To show your pet that you are not interested in their reaction, ignore it. Tell your dog to stay. Have other family members go outside and ring the doorbell. These steps should be repeated until your dog becomes quiet to outdoor sounds. Reward your dog for each successful command.
2. Teach your dog how to use their bed or crate. Encourage positive experiences with outside noise. You can make sure that their bed is included in this training. You can tell them to go to their bed or crate if they hear the bell ring or knock at the door. Reward them by giving them a small treat and asking them to “stay” until you open the door. Reward them verbally for their good behaviour and stay on the command.

Do some practice runs with your family and friends before allowing your dog to roam the house. You can let them come in unexpectedly, ring the bell, or knock at the door. These practice runs will help your dog understand that the sounds are a reward and a friendly, social situation.

Teach your dog not to jump on guests

Jumping can be annoying for guests and dangerous. Jumping on children under 5 years old or senior citizens can cause injuries. These are some ways to discourage such behaviour.

1. Install a barrier. Use a baby gate or a door to secure the hallway or foyer so that your guest can safely enter. This will allow your dog to calm down and observe who is entering without jumping up.
2. Train your dog to wait until someone comes to reward them. Reward them with a treat if they remain calm and respond. Keep doing this every time someone approaches your door. It is possible to train your dog how to greet guests. If your guest behaves well, you can give them a treat. Your four-legged friend will begin to see guests as something positive.

You can also call your dog to “spot” (either a specific place in the house or a bed) and wait patiently for a reward.

Questions about Teaching your dog not to react to the doorbell?

Be careful not to punish or scold your dog in any training. This will only encourage the behaviour to continue. Punishment can make them anxious and afraid of strangers. Please keep your eyes on the positive and focus on the good behaviour they want.