How Do I Stop My Labradoodle from Barking Excessively?
Labradoodles are smart, social, and energetic dogs—but like any breed, they can sometimes develop a barking habit that gets a little out of hand. Before you can fix excessive barking, it helps to understand why your dog is doing it in the first place. Common reasons include boredom, attention-seeking, excitement, fear, or reacting to noises and strangers. Some Labradoodles also bark out of separation anxiety when left alone.
The good news is that barking is a form of communication, not defiance. If you listen closely and observe when it happens, you’ll get closer to solving it without frustration.
Recognize the Triggers
Keep a notebook or use your phone to jot down when your Labradoodle tends to bark. Do they go off when the mail is delivered? Or when a neighbor walks past the window? Maybe it’s when you're on a Zoom call or leave the house. Identifying patterns is step one in cutting down the barking.
Once you know the trigger, you can either eliminate it (like closing curtains) or work on desensitizing your dog to it over time.
Don't Yell—Redirect
A common mistake people make is yelling back when their dog barks. But to your Labradoodle, this can sound like you're joining the noise. Instead, calmly redirect their energy. For example, if they bark at the doorbell, teach them to go to a specific mat or spot and stay there when they hear it. This gives them a job to do instead of just reacting.
Train the “Quiet” Command
Training your dog to be quiet on cue can be a game-changer. Start when your Labradoodle is barking. Say “Speak,” and when they bark, praise them. Then say “Quiet” in a calm voice. Wait until they stop barking, even just for a moment, and reward them immediately. Repeat this over time and gradually ask for longer quiet periods before rewarding.
This teaches them that silence also gets them what they want—your attention and treats.
Provide Enough Physical and Mental Exercise
Labradoodles have lots of energy. Without enough exercise, that energy can turn into barking. Aim for two solid walks a day and mix in games like fetch or tug-of-war. Mental workouts are just as important. Try puzzle toys, scent games, or teaching them new tricks.
A tired dog is a quieter dog.
Use Distractions When You're Away
If your dog barks when you leave, it may be separation anxiety. One way to help is to create positive associations with being alone. Leave them with a safe chew toy, a frozen treat, or a slow-feeder puzzle. You can also try leaving soft music or a white noise machine on in the background to drown out outdoor sounds.
Start with short absences and slowly increase the time you're gone, so your Labradoodle learns that you always come back.
Avoid Accidental Rewards
Sometimes, we unknowingly reward barking. If your Labradoodle barks and you give them attention—even negative attention—they learn that barking gets a response. If the barking isn't urgent or dangerous, try ignoring it until they stop, then offer praise or a treat for being quiet.
It’s all about timing and consistency.
Consider Professional Help If It Persists
If barking continues despite your best efforts, it might be time to bring in a dog trainer or behaviorist. Some barking is tied to deeper anxiety or fear-based responses that benefit from expert guidance.
They can assess your dog’s behavior and create a training plan that’s tailored to your situation. It’s nothing to feel bad about—some dogs just need a little extra help to get past certain habits.
Final Thoughts
Barking is normal for dogs, but when it gets excessive, it can wear on your patience and your neighbors’ too. The key is to approach the issue with calm, consistency, and a little creativity. When you take time to understand your Labradoodle’s needs and train them with kindness, you'll start to see changes that stick.
At All About The Doodles, we’re passionate about helping doodle families live their best lives together. From training tips to coat care and nutrition advice, we’ve got everything you need to raise a happy, well-balanced Labradoodle.