How to Calm Your Dog When the Doorbell Rings

A very common issue faced by dog parents across the world is their dog barking when a guest rings the doorbell. While that could just be your dog being excited about meeting the person, it could also be a sign of them being afraid or nervous if they're barking excessively. Here are some specific steps to calm your dog when the doorbell rings and turn it into an everyday occurance:

1. Before someone arrives, put your dog in a separate room or crate with a favourite toy or treat to keep them occupied.
2. As someone approaches the door, use a calm and reassuring tone to tell your dog "quiet" or "it's okay" and give them a treat or toy.
3. When the doorbell rings, remain calm and do not react emotionally. Greet the visitor at the door and ask them to ignore your dog until he or she is calm.
4. Once your dog is calm, you can allow them to interact with the visitor, but always supervise and intervene if necessary.
5. Practice this routine regularly, gradually increasing the time between the doorbell ringing and your dog receiving a treat or toy.
6. Reward your dog for calm behaviour and ignore any barking or whining.
7. Consult with a professional dog trainer for more personalized advice and training if needed.
8. If your dog is not friendly with other people make sure you keep him leashed inside before opening the door.

It's important to remember that this process may take time, so be patient with your dog. It may also be helpful to start with a short doorbell ringing practice and gradually increase the duration over time.