How to stop your Schnauzer from barking?

As a member of the terrier family, the Schnauzer uses its keen hearing and strong sense of territory to use barking as a "weapon" to protect its home. However, behind this loyalty, excessive barking has become an obstacle between the owner and a peaceful life. To help our Schnauzer get rid of this habit, we need to use professional knowledge as a shield and gentle love as a sword to unlock the "barking code" in its heart. ​

The barking of Schnauzers is like a unique language, and each bark has different demands. When it barks at pedestrians or other animals passing by the window, it may be out of a desire to protect its territory, and regards any "strangers" approaching as potential threats; continuous barking when alone at home may be caused by separation anxiety, and it is calling for the owner's company with its voice; and sudden short barking may just be to attract your attention, eager for snacks or the opportunity to play. Crouching down and staring into its eyes that flash with emotions, you will find that these barks are not unwarranted noises, but the way it tries to communicate with you. Just like children express their needs through crying, Schnauzers also convey their anxiety, desire and vigilance through barking. ​

If you want Schnauzers to stop barking excessively, it is key to establish clear behavioral rules. When it starts barking meaninglessly, the owner needs to stay calm and say the "quiet" command in a firm and gentle tone. This command should be short and powerful, and be consistent every time you train, just like teaching a child to learn to speak, repetition and persistence can deepen the impression. At the same time, you can gently press its mouth and use the temperature of your palm to convey the "stop" signal. Keep this action until it quiets down, then give it small snacks such as chicken jerky and cheese grains as rewards, and then gently scratch its chin with your fingers. At first, Schnauzers may tilt their heads in confusion, not understanding why they are stopped from "speaking", but with patient guidance again and again, they will gradually understand that quietness is the behavior expected by the owner. ​

Using Schnauzers' excess energy is an effective way to reduce barking. This energetic dog breed needs at least 1-2 hours of exercise every day. In the morning, take it for a run on the park trails and watch it chase the falling leaves; in the evening, play Frisbee games with it, and when it jumps high and bites the Frisbee, its eyes will be full of excitement. Exercise not only strengthens its body, but also relieves its inner pressure. Just like a child will be much quieter when he returns home after playing on the playground, a Schnauzer who has been fully exercised will often lie down in his nest and rest quietly when he returns home, and naturally has no energy to bark again. ​

For Schnauzers who keep barking due to separation anxiety, the owner needs to give them a sense of security in a special way. Before leaving home, don't say goodbye to it for a long time to avoid letting it notice your departure and aggravating its anxiety. You can prepare a leaky toy in advance and hide snacks in the gaps of the toy. When you go out, it will focus on exploring the toy and getting food, diverting its attention from separation. At the same time, play soft music or TV programs at home to simulate the sounds of human activities so that it doesn't feel lonely. You can also put an old piece of clothing with your scent in its nest. The familiar smell will be like a warm embrace, giving it the power of peace of mind. When you go home, don't respond to its barking immediately and enthusiastically. Instead, wait until it is completely quiet, then give it a hug and praise to help it establish the cognition that "quiet waiting will get attention." ​

Environmental desensitization training can help Schnauzers overcome overreaction to external stimuli. For example, it always barks at the footsteps outside the door. The owner can record the footsteps and play it from the lowest volume. When it behaves calmly, give it snacks and pet it in time; if it barks, pause the playback immediately and wait until it is quiet before continuing. As the training progresses, gradually increase the volume and playback time to let it slowly adapt to the sound. This process requires great patience, just like teaching a child not to be afraid of thunder. Every time it can face stimulation calmly, it is the beginning of progress. ​

In the process of correcting Schnauzers' barking habits, the owner's emotions and attitudes are crucial. When it barks again at an inappropriate time, don't yell or punish it, because this will only increase its anxiety and make barking more frequent. Schnauzers are very sensitive to their owners' emotions. Your anxiety and anger will make them nervous and they won't understand what they did wrong. On the contrary, only with a calm mind and gentle guidance can they change their habits in a safe environment. ​

Each Schnauzer is a unique little angel, warming the lives of their owners with loyalty and enthusiasm. Although excessive barking brings troubles, as long as we are willing to take the time to understand and guide it, we can help it learn a gentler way of communication with professional methods and full of love. One day, when the little guy who used to love "noisy" can quietly snuggle up to you and spend every quiet afternoon with you, the hard work and persistence during training will become the most precious memories, witnessing the deep emotional bond between you.