Helping Your Dog Stay Calm Around Visitors & Reduce Attention-Seeking Barking

Does your dog bark non-stop when guests arrive or when they want attention? Teaching them to go to their “place” and reinforcing quiet behavior helps them stay relaxed and polite—even in exciting situations!

What to Expect

• Practice: 3–5 times a week, 10–15 minutes per session

• Best Times: Before expected visitors or whenever barking gets out of hand

• Patience is Key: At first, your dog may bark more (an “extinction burst”). Stay consistent!

Step-by-Step Training Guide

1️⃣ Place Training – Calm Greetings for Visitors

1. Introduce the “Place”

• Pick a bed, mat, or crate as your dog’s designated spot.

• Guide them there and reward with a treat when they settle.

2. Add a Verbal Cue

• Say “Go to your place” as you lead them.

• Reward them right away for staying put—even if it’s just for a second.

3. Build Up Stay Duration

• Start with 3 seconds, then slowly increase the time before rewarding.

• If they move before being released, calmly guide them back and try again.

4. Add Distance & Distractions

• Step away briefly—if they stay, reward.

• Introduce small distractions, like knocking on a table or opening the door slightly.

5. Practice with Real Visitors

• Have a friend ring the doorbell while you guide your dog to their place.

• Reward calm behavior and gradually increase the challenge.

Paw Tip: If your dog struggles, give them a long-lasting chew (like a stuffed Kong) on their mat to keep them occupied!

2️⃣ Ignore & Reinforce Quiet – Teaching That Barking Doesn’t Work

1. Ignore the Barking

• No eye contact, no talking, no touching—turn away or leave the room if needed.

• Even scolding can be “attention” to them!

2. Reward Instant Silence

• The moment they stop barking, mark it with “Yes!” and give a treat.

• This teaches them, "Quiet = Rewards!"

3. Gradually Increase Quiet Time

• Start with 1-second pauses, then build to 3, 5, or more seconds before rewarding.

4. Stay Consistent

• Barking never gets attention, quiet always does—make sure everyone in the house follows this rule!

Paw Tip: If ignoring alone doesn’t work, pair this with impulse control games to build patience!

Helpful Tools for Success

🏡 Comfy Dog Bed – A cozy “place” makes training easier.Covered Crate – Private, cozy hideaway

🍽️ High-Value Treats – More motivation = faster learning.

🔇 Puzzle Feeders – Encourages quiet, focused behavior.

We’d Love Your Feedback!

📱 Got Questions? – Message us on WhatsAppfor quick training support!

🎥 Show Us Your Progress! – Share a quick video of your pup practicing—we love seeing your wins!