We’ve all seen our dogs go crazy barking when the mail carrier shows up, or a fast-moving graphic plays on TV. It can seem like a huge reaction to something that doesn’t bother us much. “It’s just the mail!” we might think. But these things can set off strong feelings and instincts for our dogs. Let’s look at why they bark so much and what you can do about it.
Reason #1 – The Mail Carrier or Delivery Person Are At The Door
- Sudden Sounds: Door knocks or doorbell rings instantly put some dogs on alert
- Guarding Their Home: They see their home as their territory, and the approaching stranger feels like an invasion
- The “Chase Away” Effect: The mail carrier leaves after the barking, reinforcing the behavior
- Unpredictable Timing: Even though it’s daily, the exact arrival can be startling
Reason #2 – Stimuli from the TV
- Misunderstanding Reality: Dogs don’t always understand that what’s on-screen isn’t real.
- Gotta Catch Them All: Fast movement or animal sounds can trigger hunting instincts.
- Sound Association: TV sounds like doorbells or barking can be mistaken for real events.
- Attention Seeking: Barking at the TV can be a learned way to get your attention.
- Overstimulation: Rapid visuals and sounds can be overwhelming and cause stress.
Reason #3 – Random Triggers
It’s not just the mail and TV. Dogs can also bark at:
- Toasters popping
- Seeing things outside from the window
- The vacuum cleaner
- Sirens or distant dog barks
- Sounds from other rooms
How to Quiet the Barking
Teach your dog to bark less by slowly getting them used to triggers like the mail carrier or TV in a calm way, rewarding quiet behavior with treats. For example, reward them for staying calm when they hear the mail truck coming near or when the TV is on quietly.
Create a safe and comfy spot like a crate or bed for your dog to retreat to when overwhelmed by triggers. Encourage them to go there when the mail arrives, or the TV gets loud. Also, manage their environment by blocking outside views with curtains or blinds and using white noise to mask sounds. Keep TV volume low and avoid overly stimulating shows.
Train your dog to do a different action instead of barking, like going to their mat or being quiet, and reward them when they do it around triggers. If your dog is comfortable, a calm introduction to the mail carrier with treats can help them make positive associations. However, always prioritize safety.
General anxiety can contribute to the barking, so consult your vet if needed. Be sure your dog gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, as tired dogs often bark less. Remember that changing barking habits takes time and consistency, so be patient and celebrate small improvements.
Hopefully, understanding why your dog reacts the way they do and using these simple tips will help bring a little more peace and quiet to your home. If you need a place for your dog to stay while you’re away from home, Hillrose Pet Resort offers premium pet boarding for dogs and cats, and you can book a reservation online.