People talk, dogs bark. It is their way of communicating. If they need to go out, come in, see people or other dogs in your yard, they will probably bark. A knock on the door can set them off into a melee of noise. That's not bad if it's a burglar at your door, but can be unnerving to the child next door or your friends.

Dogs will bark out of boredom which usually stems from confinement. If they are in a crate all day or confined to a particular area of your house they may let you know they aren't happy. They are asking for attention and you are the one to provide it.

If a dog is afraid of something, chances are they will bark. It doesn't matter if it is people, other dogs, thunder, loud noises or other animals.

Protecting their own turf is instinctive. If he appears territorial with ears up and forward and tail held high , you may want to deal with that.

As dogs age health issues can also be the cause. Older dogs who are deaf, cannot hear themselves bark. Your dog may have senile dementia. Your veterinarian can help with medications for dementia but not deafness. A deaf dog can be taught the quiet command with hand gestures or other method such as a flash light. This must be taught to them.

If you have more than one dog, each should be trained individually. This prevents roars when the doorbell rings.

Training your dog to stop barking is a challenge, but it can be done. First of all, don't bark back. Yelling at them is your form of barking. To be successful with your attempts there are a few methods you can use.

• Ignore the barking. Leave them alone, no contact, conversation or attention until they quit. Once they are quiet give them a treat as a reward.

• Gradually a dog can get used to whatever is causing him to bark. First have the item they bark out far away that they don't bark when they see it. Gradually move the item closer a few feet at a time. Every time the dog does not bark, give a treat. Take your time and be patient.

Teaching the quiet command requires a unique method to say the least. First teach your dog to "speak." Have someone make a noise that usually makes your dog bark. Allow him to bark several times, then put a treat in front of his nose. When he stops to smell the treat, praise him before you give it to him. Once your dog can bark on command, it is time to teach "quiet." First tell him to speak. When he starts barking, tell him quiet and present a treat. Once he is quiet, praise him and give him the treat.

You can also teach your dog to do something specific to stop the barking such as going to his crate when the doorbell rings. If he goes to his place on command it is treat time.

Make sure your dog gets enough exercise and has enough mental stimulation to get him tired. Tired is good and makes him less likely to bark.

Article by Kelly Marshall of Oh My Dog Supplies [http://www.ohmydogsupplies.com/dog-supplies/dog-beds/], check out our selection of dog steps online.