To stop a Patterdale Terrier from barking, first work out why it barks, then remove the reason: give this high-energy working terrier plenty of exercise and things to do, block or reduce the triggers it barks at, reward quiet behavior, never reward the barking itself, and teach a "quiet" cue. Shouting and punishment usually make barking worse.
In this blog post, we’ll outline the best techniques to stop your Patterdale Terrier from barking, the mistakes to avoid, and the most common reasons Patterdales bark.
How to Stop Your Patterdale Terrier From Barking
There are a number of things you can do to help stop your Patterdale Terrier from barking.
- First, make sure that you’re providing him with plenty of exercise. Patterdale Terriers are high-energy dogs and need to burn off excess energy. A tired dog is a good dog.
- Second, make sure to provide plenty of stimulation. This can be in the form of toys, walks, or even just spending time with your dog. A bored Patterdale Terrier is more likely to bark out of frustration.
- Third, if your Patterdale Terrier is barking for attention, don't reward the barking by looking at, talking to or feeding him. Wait for a few seconds of quiet, then give him attention. And make sure his needs are met before he has to ask: regular walks, play, meals on schedule, and fresh water available at all times.
- Fourth, if your dog is barking out of anxiety or frustration, it’s important to seek professional help. This is a serious problem that requires special attention.
- If your Patterdale Terrier is barking because he’s feeling playful, wait for a moment of quiet, then offer a toy or take him for a walk.
- Manage the triggers. If he barks at people and dogs passing by, block the view with frosted window film or by moving furniture, and don't leave him alone in the yard where he can bark at everything.
- Teach a "quiet" cue. When he barks, calmly say "quiet," wait for him to pause (holding a treat near his nose can help), then reward him. Gradually ask for longer pauses before the treat.
If your Patterdale suddenly starts barking much more than usual, especially at night or when touched, have your vet check for pain or another health problem.
Things to Avoid When Training Your Patterdale Terrier
There are a few things you should avoid when trying to stop your Patterdale Terrier from barking. Avoiding these tactics will help to ensure that you have success in stopping your Patterdale Terrier from barking so much!
1Getting Angry
First and foremost, it’s important to avoid getting angry at your Patterdale Terrier when he’s barking. This will only make the problem worse. Dogs can sense when their owners are angry and this will only serve to heighten their anxiety.
2Punishing Your Dog
Similarly, it’s important to avoid punishing your Patterdale Terrier when he’s barking. This will only serve to make him more anxious and could even lead to aggression.
Instead, focus on positive reinforcement techniques like rewarding your dog when he’s quiet. This will help him to associate good things with being quiet and will be more likely to stop barking.
3Ignoring Your Dog
Another mistake people make is ignoring the reason behind the barking. Ignoring a dog that is barking for attention can work, as long as you reward him when he's quiet and stay consistent, because giving in even occasionally teaches him to bark longer. But ignoring a dog that barks out of fear, anxiety or an unmet need (like needing to go out) won't solve anything and can make him more stressed. Work out the cause first.
Why is Your Patterdale Terrier Barking?
Before you can stop your Patterdale Terrier from barking, it’s important to understand why they’re barking in the first place. There are a number of reasons why dogs bark and each dog is different. However, there are some common reasons for Patterdale Terriers to bark.
1Aggression
The first reason your Patterdale Terriers may bark is because of aggression. If your dog is feeling threatened or aggressive, they may bark as a way to warn of the perceived threat.
2Boredom
If your Patterdale Terrier is bored, they may start barking out of frustration. This is often the case with dogs who are left alone for long periods of time. Make sure to provide your Patterdale Terrier with plenty of exercise and stimulation to avoid this problem.
3He Needs Something
If your Patterdale Terrier is barking, he may simply need something, like water, a meal or a potty break. Make sure fresh water is always available, feed him on a regular schedule, and take him out regularly to avoid this issue.
4Feeling Playful
Patterdale Terriers are also known for being playful. If your dog is barking and wagging his tail, he may just want to play. In this case, it’s best to provide him with a toy or take him for a walk.
5Alerting You To Visitors
Patterdale Terriers were originally bred in northern England to hunt foxes and other vermin, so they are alert, quick to react, and very aware of everything going on around them. If your dog is barking at the door, he's likely alerting you to visitors. Teaching him to go to his bed when the doorbell rings, and practicing with a recorded doorbell sound at a low volume, can help.
6Frustration
Patterdale Terriers can be very vocal dogs. If they’re not getting the attention they want, they may start barking out of frustration. Make sure to spend plenty of time with your Patterdale Terrier to avoid this problem.
7Separation Anxiety
Patterdale Terriers are very attached to their owners. If they’re left alone for too long, they may start barking out of anxiety. This is a serious problem that should be addressed with professional help.
Should I Hire a Dog Trainer?
If you’re having trouble stopping your Patterdale Terrier from barking, you may want to consider hiring a professional dog trainer. A dog trainer can help you to identify the root of the problem and can teach you how to effectively stop your dog from barking.
Do Patterdale Terriers Naturally Bark a Lot?
Patterdale Terriers are bred to be working dogs. This means that they have a strong instinct to bark. However, this doesn’t mean that every Patterdale Terrier will be a barker.
Some Patterdale Terriers may naturally bark more than others. However, this is usually due to boredom or anxiety.
Are Patterdale Terriers Easy to Train?
Patterdale Terriers are intelligent dogs and can be easy to train. However, they can also be stubborn and headstrong. This means that you’ll need to be patient when training your Patterdale Terrier.
Use positive reinforcement techniques like treats or praise to encourage good behavior. Avoid using punishment as this will only serve to make your dog more anxious.
Make sure to make use of conditioned emotional response in dog training. Changing how your dog feels about a trigger, for example by pairing the sight of other dogs with treats, is one of the most effective ways to reduce barking that comes from fear or excitement.
Key Takeaways
Though Patterdale Terriers can make great companions, you may need to work with them a bit to prevent barking and other undesirable behaviors. With enough patience and goodwill, you will definitely make a great pet out of your Patterdale Terrier.
