Originally Posted by
Shelley
I don't typically have barkers here, but when they decided to exercise their opinion, I teach them "Speak". I get them to bark on command, then it isn't a big leap to teach "No Speak" or no bark. Like other behaviors, it takes time, but it works. This age is where the puppy develops self awareness, and independence away from the litter, so they push boundaries and manipulate their environment (and you!) as much as they can, so when they bark, deflect and do a training session, some puppy push ups, leash work sit stays etc... instead, so they get the opposite of what they want, treats, play, pats, or you could crate them so they learn self control. The barking for attention will only get worse if you don't nip it in the bud now, they will escalate their behavior to get what they want if it works.