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My puppy barks for attention. How can I stop demand barking?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 4 months and 21 days old | 35 lbs

My Mother's new puppy (Miniature Schnauzer/German Shepherd) who is intensely intelligent and will bark for attention or to get his way. I think it's called demand barking or at least resembles it a lot. We can't figure out how to make him stop barking when he's on a roll. She's been taking him to puppy classes but he's barking so much that the instructor has a hard time talking over him and separates him from the class. What would you suggest?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH

Answered By Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner

Published on October 16th, 2017

I would recommend trying to find an individual trainer instead of a class for Max. It sounds like he needs some one on one attention and training. He has likely had a couple of months to develop this behavior, so it won't be cured overnight, but the longer it goes on for, the harder it will be to retrain. I would ask your vet for a recommendation for a trainer to work with.
Good luck! I hope that was helpful! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Joy Fuhrman, DVM, MBA, CPA

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 10th, 2018

    It is true that any training needs to be consistent to be effective. Any training program will comprise positive rewards (treats) for correct behaviors. So if Buddy does not bark he should be rewarded. You may want to consider working with a certified trainer in your area to help with this issue. There are also some great resources on www.draophiayin.com that address barking behaviors. I do not recommend the use of bark collars.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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