Training Your Dog to Stop Barking at the Mail Carrier
Does your dog bark excessively at the mailman or mailwoman? You can trust that you are not alone! There are a few reasons your dog may bark at the mail carrier. One of the most common reasons for the barking is that they are trying to protect you and the home. Your four-legged friend may also feel like they are making a difference when they bark because the mail carrier will approach their territory, the dog will bark, and the mail carrier will leave. Your dog will feel successful.
Although your dog may have legit reasons for barking at the mail carrier, it isn’t necessarily considered good doggie manners. We want to introduce the Positive Association Method to help you train your dog to stop barking at the mailman or mailwoman. Follow our steps below.
- Hit the streets for a walk. Take your dog outside for a walk when your mail carrier is in the neighborhood. You may introduce your dog to the mail carrier when they are off your property. Your dog may bark and try to protect you and itself, but it will not have the stress of protecting its territory.
- Distraction. When the mail carrier approaches your property, distract your dog with basic obedience commands such as “sit,” “heel,” or “down.”
- Positive reinforcement works wonders. Did your dog respond appropriately? If so, reward them with a treat. Did your dog continue to bark at the mail carrier? Take them further away from the mail carrier until you are at a distance where the dog must respond to commands.
- Move a little closer. Move closer to the mail carrier each time you encounter them. Do this until your dog responds to commands and does not bark in the presence of the mail carrier.
- Ask the mail carrier if they can help with training. Of course, the mail carrier has a job to do! However, they may be willing to participate in training. You can give the mail carrier treats to give to your dog. This will help your four-legged friend feel more comfortable around them.
As always, patience and consistency go a long way. Following our directions will help you get your four-legged friend used to the mail carrier. You never know; they may find their new best friend!
