What is the Best Way to Teach a Dog to Bark?

by Em Connell McCarty

Overview

From the time humans first domesticated the dog, they have valued her bark to alert the family or community that danger was present. If you have a dog for protection and peace of mind, having her be able to bark on cue is valuable. Alternatively, sometimes by teaching your dog to bark on command, you can also teach her when not to bark. The best way to teach your dog to bark on command and when you need her to is to teach your dog through marker--or clicker--training.
Marker

Use a marker word or sound (such as a clicker) in your training. Basically, every time you say the word or make the sound, your dog receives a reward. This training tool will make all training easier because you will be able to communicate with your dog by marking the behavior you are seeking, and he will be better able to figure out what it is you want from him.

Provocation

Provoke your dog into a bark. Get your dog excited. Jump up and down, use a high-pitched voice and behave erratically. If this does not provoke your dog, maybe the doorbell or a knock at the door will. Figure out what makes your dog bark, and the instant he responds with a bark, mark the behavior and reward him.
Attaching a Command

Attach a command after a few successful markers. Say "speak," "talk" or whatever command you want your dog to bark after. Give the command, provoke the bark and mark the behavior. Your dog may figure out quickly what you are looking for, or it may take her awhile. Practice a little every day until she is responding appropriately after you give the command.
Teaching a Stop

Teach a cease-barking command if you have a dog that is responding to the barking with too much enthusiasm. To do this, wait for a pause in his barking, mark the behavior and reward him. After a few successful attempts to mark the ceasing of his barking, attach a command such as "enough" or "quiet."