Cockapoos are loving, affectionate, and loyal. They love their owners, but they also love meeting and playing with new people and animals. It’s no wonder, then, that so many people decide to bring a Cockapoo into their family home.
As wonderful as this breed is, though, potential dog owners want to know what they’re in for before adopting a Cockapoo. One of the first questions on their mind is whether or not their Cockapoo puppy
will bark.
Cockapoos tend to bark, but with training and patience, you can curtail this habit. Read on to learn more:
Why Cockapoos Bark
Before we get into fixing your Cockapoo’s barking habit, it’s important to understand why they bark. Each Cockapoo is different, so the reason for one Cockapoo could be different from another. In general, though, there are a few reasons why they bark:
- Separation Anxiety: Cockapoos are very social dogs, so they don’t like to be left alone for too long. If they start feeling isolated, they’ll experience separation anxiety. A symptom of separation anxiety is excessive barking.
- Boredom: Cockapoos are intelligent dogs. As such, they can get bored easily. If they don’t have people, animals, or toys to entertain them, they will start barking as a way to get your attention.
- Poor Socialization: Most Cockapoo puppies should be properly socialized early on. However, if they are not, then you will be dealing with a rambunctious, troublesome pup. They will act out, and a part of this will be excessive barking.
- Attention Seeking: If your Cockapoo wants your attention, they’ll get it by barking. Make sure you’re not ignoring your dog while you’re at home.
- Stress or Discomfort: Dogs often express their emotions through barks, whimpers, growls, and more. Barking is a way to express their stress and discomfort. Check to make sure your dog isn’t hurt or anxious.
- Territorial Barking: If your Cockapoo senses a threat, such as another person or dog, they could start barking as a way to alert the family. This will most often occur when the doorbell rings, someone walks in front of the house, etc.
- Excitement: Barking doesn’t always have to be a sign that something is wrong. Your Cockapoo may bark when they’re excited, such as seeing you come home after work or when they’re playing.
How to Stop Your Cockapoo from Barking
As we said before, to get your Cockapoo to stop barking, you need to understand why they’re barking in the first place. Once you’ve found the reason, you can find a solution. That solution will, of course, vary depending on the reason. A Cockapoo barking from separation anxiety will need different training than one barking from pain.
In most cases, though, obedience training and positive reinforcement can help reduce barking (exceptions being if your dog is barking due to stress or pain). Here’s how to get started:
Take Your Cockapoo to the Vet
To rule out stress or pain, make sure you bring your Cockapoo to the vet for an evaluation. They’ll be able to help you pinpoint the reason for your Cockapoo’s barking.
Start Obedience Training
If you haven’t already, sign your dog up for obedience training classes. By teaching your pup commands, you’ll be able to more easily control their barking.
Use Positive Reinforcement
While at home, use positive reinforcement to teach your dog that barking is unproductive. To do this, ignore your dog when they start barking. When they stop, reward them with praise or a treat. This will teach your dog that it’s better to not bark than to bark. Never yell at your dog to stop barking, as this will stress them out and give them the attention they’re seeking.
For more tips on how to care for your Cockapoo puppy, read through our blog or contact Family Puppies today.
