Some Free Tips to Stop a Dog From Charging and Barking at People at the Fence

For this Bellevue dog training session we did a little clicker training to help 4 year-old Terrier mix Kara. We also shared tips to stop dog charging and barking when people pass by the fence.

We spent the first part of the session talking about why dogs can be territorial.

Territorial Behaviors in Dogs

Dogs can exhibit territorial behaviors for several reasons. Instincts are important, especially in breeds that like to chase prey, like herding or hunting dogs.

They may react to children’s movements and noises. Stressful environments, such as aggression from other dogs or crowded spaces, can make dogs more defensive and reactive. Medical conditions can lead to territorial behaviors as well.

Additionally, fear can cause dogs to act territorially when they perceive an intruder, especially if they feel cornered. Not socializing can make dogs anxious, causing them to mark their territory as a way to cope with stress.

We covered additional topics, such as:

• How dogs learn and why inconsistency confuses dogs.
• The importance of exercise and options; doggy stair master, scent games, fetch and feeding with a snuffle matt or treat dispensing toys.
• How introducing and enforcing rules consistently helps dogs see humans as leaders
• Adding structure to pets via Petting with a Purpose
• Rewarding desired behaviors via Passive Training
• Teaching the dog to focus on the human with basic training and a focus exercise

Stopping a Dog From Acting Aggressive

To stop Kara from charging the fence when people walk by, I came up with a few different exercises. To help the guardians remember these tips to stop a dog from rushing the fence to bark at people we filmed a short positive dog behavior training video that you can watch below.

As you saw in the video above, it did not take Kara long to catch on to these exercises. By giving the young dog a little more structure and a more positive experience in the backyard, we can stop a dog from rushing the fence.

Tips to Stop Dog Charging

To stop a dog from being aggressive when people pass the fence, create a positive experience for the dog. It also helps to teach the dog to listen and pay attention to its guardians in the location it normally acts out.

This program has many steps to help a dog stop being aggressive when people walk by, but they are simple. Considering Kara is part terrier, the barking at dogs passing by is bark biology and bark behavioral.

Different Terrier mixes need varying levels of training and socialization, and some may be more prone to barking than others. Your terrier mix might bark to signal that they want to play, eat, or get attention. To help address this, establish a consistent daily routine that includes regular meal times, play sessions, and exercise, all at roughly the same times each day.

You don’t need to be a professional dog trainer to stop a dog from being aggressive at the fence. This method is easy for anyone to use. After we filmed the above video, the guardian was able to get similar results. And this was with only a few minutes of practice!

The guardian and I quickly called Kara away from people when she barked. I believe the guardians can reduce and eventually stop this unwanted behavior in dogs for good.

We made a summary video for the family. It highlights the positive dog behavior tips from our training session in the Omaha area. You can watch the video below for guidance on success.