🐶 Is your dog a little too barky at the door? It might not be bad behaviour – it could be stress! PDSA is shining a light on how some actions we see as “naughty” might actually be signs of anxiety. As part of Dog Awareness Week 2026, running until 10 July, they’re encouraging pet owners to recognise these signs and opt for reward-based training.
🧐 Dogs can see the front door as their territory and might get overwhelmed when someone new arrives. This barking may seem like they’re just being loud, but in reality, your dog might think they’re handling a threat. The barking continues because, from their perspective, it works – the visitor comes, they bark, and the visitor leaves. They believe they’ve succeeded!
🐾 Key stress indicators include excessive barking, pacing, panting, and pinned-back ears. Instead of punishing this behaviour, which can escalate their anxiety, focus on rewarding calm reactions. Train your dog to perform an alternate task, such as going to their bed when there’s a knock at the door. This simple change can reduce stress for both pups and owners, transforming stressful arrivals into peaceful encounters.
❗️ Remember, training requires patience and positive reinforcement. If your dog’s anxiety seems severe or doesn’t improve with training, consulting a vet or a professional behaviourist can help. Ignoring their initial stress signals can lead to future aggression or health issues, so it’s crucial to be proactive. Sometimes, there might be medical reasons behind their behaviour, so always check with a vet first to rule out underlying issues.
📣 Training tip: Use recorded doorbell sounds to practice calmly going to their bed, combined with rewarding them for settling. Avoid shouting or punishment – calm, consistent training goes a long way in ensuring a relaxed pet. Let’s help our furry friends feel safe and relaxed in their homes! 🐕❤️