Are Cockapoos Barkers?

All dogs bark and it can be quite cute. I really find it amusing when my little dog hears something and starts to make some little territorial barking noises.

The first thing to remember is that all dogs bark for a reason and the problems comes with the issues below:

1. Barking at the edge of his territory. When he sees the postman or another dog
2. Boredom barkers. Dogs that are craving companionship or mental stimulation. In some cases this can lead to compulsive barking which is an indicator something is seriously wrong. In most cases a dog is being left alone too much.
3. Some breeds just bark more than others. Dogs that have been breed as guard dogs have a strong urge to bark at strangers and protect the family territory. Cockapoos are not one of those breeds but depending on circumstances they will bark too much which becomes a nuisance.

There are other reasons dogs bark, but let’s look at the two problem areas in more depth and think about common sense cures that work.

Territorial barkers

This one is relatively simple to stop. Use baby-gates and crating or put him somewhere he can’t see passers-by. If you are leaving him alone for a short period, leave the radio on. This will lessen his ability to hear external noises and also given him comfort of hearing friendly voices and gentle music.

Boredom barkers

Firstly, make sure your Cockapoo has been well exercised. A well exercised dog will bark less. If you’re going to be out for long periods then ask a friend or dog walker to stop by even if it’s just to play a game with him. Dogs are really social animals and generally don’t do well on their own. Barking is just a symptom of this.

You can also offer something to occupy him (like a Kong stuffed with treats). This will make your leaving beneficial to him, and stop the ‘I’m on my own now’ barking.

Train Your Cockapoo Not To Bark

Below are some really simple steps using a positive rewards method to lessen unwanted barking

1. When your dog is barking join in with him (let yourself go and don’t be embarrassed just have fun). You can even add a command to it like ‘woof’
2. Then take a treat out and hold it in front of his nose
3. He will stop barking because he has to…and just wait
4. After 5 seconds give him the treat
5. Repeat and extend the waiting period

This will reinforce to him that not barking equals something good will happen. Like all these training sessions it takes time and patience. But if you’re having fun it’s no trouble at all.

Wrap up

The answer to Are Cockapoo’s Barkers? depends a lot on the owner. A well exercised, mental engaged Cockapoo that is well socialised and has his owner about most of the time is key. Then throw in a few training techniques as outlined above and you won’t have a Cockapoo barking problem.

Remember barking is your Cockapoos main way of communication, so he will need to bark sometimes. Like every aspect of his behaviour your investment in him – by taking the time to train him – will help you and your poo find acceptable, appropriate levels of barking.

Punishing doesn’t work. It just makes a dog anxious and stressed, will not cure unwanted barking and probably make it worse as well as provoking other unwanted behaviours like aggression.

Like all training, be patient with your Cockapoo and be heartened by small improvements you see. There are other methods that are also useful.

Feel free to drop me a question below.