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How do I stop my senior dog from barking excessively at nothing?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 14 years and 6 months old | 20 lbs

My dog won't stop barking. He barks before a walk, after a walk, before being fed, after eating, and all the time. I don't know how he doesn't get tired of it. He's 13 years old. He's always been a barker but usually at someone walking by or coming in the house; now it seems to be at nothing. He can't even see the street.I'm losing sleep because he's so loud! Online it says don't give them what they want, so should I stop walking and feeding him? That doesn't seem right. I don't know what to do.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Rebecca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 14th, 2017

At Tommys age I would consider that he may have some type of cognitive dysfunction or senility issue causing increase in barking. I would recomend a veterinarian visit for a senior wellness check up and discuss his behavior as there are medications and diet that can help if it is cognitive. Medications and a neuro diet have helped my own senior dog to sleep through the night again as he was up at all hours barking, so I know your pain. ;). Good luck.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on June 1st, 2018
Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Based on your description, this could be due to cognitive dysfunction as he ages. Many times in Senior Dogs cognitive dysfunction can arise. There are medications to help with these symptoms due to cognitive dysfunction but require a prescription. I would recommend trying naturvet Quiet Moments calming chews with melatonin which you can find at Petco or online quite easily. I would also recommend using a pheromone collar such as adaptil. If these do not work then I would recommend discussing these changes in your dog's Behavior with a veterinarian so that the most appropriate Diagnostic and treatment recommendations can be made. I hope this helps guide you in the right direction. Please feel free to contact me with any further questions or concerns that you may have.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Karly Macon, DVM, MS, CVA Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Veterinarian
Published on May 4th, 2017
Behavior can change significantly with age. It's always best with an older dog having behavior changes to have a full geriatric examination done by your veterinarian to make sure that there is no medical reason for the behavior change, like pain from arthritis. Your vet may want to do screening bloodwork, X-rays, or urinalysis to evaluate how she is aging.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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