Stop Your Jack Russell Barking Problems For Good!

As with many dogs, Jack Russells like to bark. However, this breed seems to like it infinitely more than many others, so just why do they do it? The most probable explaination is that their original breeding as hunters—which requires a good amount of barking—is mostly responsible for this habit. On the hunt, Jacks would sniff out foxes and prey, following them deep into the woods, and their barking was how hunters knew where to go. Without this special trait, they would not have been effective hunting companions, so their barking tendencies are an important part of their nature.



This natural inclination, in addition to their protective and somewhat aggressive personalities, suggests you’re more than likely to experience some Jack Russell barking. Expect barking when anyone enters the home, or even crosses in front of the yard, as he is trying to defend his territory. Owners may also anticipate barking when Jacks chase, play, feel lonely, or feel frustrated—they even bark when they are bored.



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The Downside To Nature



While barking may be part of the Jack Russell personality, it can also be extraordinarily annoying. Uncontrolled yapping is unpleasant for anyone with hearing distance and must be addressed before it becomes a permanent problem. Because barking can also be a demonstration of aggression and entitlement, prevent this problem by establishing your dominance over your dog and your house.



Preventing Jack Russell Barking



Mercifully, there are ways to prevent Jack Russell barking. You may not have a totally quiet dog (and why would you want to?), but you can certainly stop him from barking inappropriately and excessively. With the right amount of patience, training, and consistency you’ll be free to leave your home without a cacophony of barking.



Begin with positive reinforcement; reward all his good behavior and completely ignore anything negative. Jacks tend to think that by barking they can always win your attention, but ignoring them will prove otherwise. While it’s not easy to dismiss loud and grating barks, this will show him that the only way to get rewarded is by not barking.



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However, you’ll often experience your Jack Russell barking in the garden. Obviously you can’t just ignore him in this circumstance, so just let him in as soon as possible. Once inside, ignore him until he stops barking (positive reinforcement) and then let him go outside again after ten or so minutes. This should be your approach anytime he barks outside and eventually your dog will get the picture—if he wants to play outside, he can’t be barking.



If he ever starts to bark at people or animals, make sure he knows it isn’t acceptable. Give him a stern "no" or "stop" and he’ll know he’s in the wrong. However, your Jack Russell may be barking simply as a result of boredom. Try to keep your dog sufficiently entertained, especially if you’re going to be gone for any period of time so that he stays occupied.



In brief, if you want to address your Jack Russell’s barking issues you really just need patience, consistency, and compassion. These dogs are very smart, but they won’t adapt instantly, so it’s very important for you to remain consistent.  Stay consistent with how you respond to barks and soon your dog will quiet down and earn your praise the quiet way.



We also have lots of other great tips on other identified problematic areas to Jack Russells which may help you. If you enjoyed this article, check out:  Jack Russell Terrier Personality.