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Gifts for Dog Owners With a Barking Dog
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This page is general information, not veterinary advice. We update it each fall.
Gift ideas that match the advice
| Gift category | Why it fits | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Window privacy film | PetMD says privacy film on windows can reduce barking without any training at all. | PetMD |
| White noise machine or a speaker for calm music | PetMD says soothing music or a white noise machine can help a dog relax and reduce alert barking. | PetMD |
| Food puzzles and treat-dispensing toys | PetMD lists puzzle and treat-dispensing toys as a way to give mental stimulation. AKC suggests hiding treats in an interactive puzzle. | PetMD, AKC |
| Hollow chew toys and spreadable treats | AKC suggests filling a hollow toy with a spreadable treat, such as dog-safe peanut butter, so the dog works to get it out. | AKC |
| A treat pouch and small, soft treats | PetMD says to offer a treat when the dog is calm and quiet around a trigger, and to use positive reinforcement. Treats are the reward in reward-based training (AVSAB). | PetMD, AVSAB |
| A reward-based training course | AVSAB: evidence supports reward-based methods for all canine training. See our review below. | AVSAB |
| A gift certificate for a dog walker or an exercise session | AKC says to give a dog enough exercise before you leave, and that a midday dog walker can help. | AKC |
Sources: PetMD, AKC, AVSAB. We name no brands and give no ratings.
Gifts to skip
- Bark collars and ultrasonic devices. PetMD says never to use punishment for barking and advises against anti-barking devices. See what the research says.
- Anything that covers up a medical problem. PetMD says barking driven by something like separation anxiety or hearing loss needs a vet visit.
- Food that is unsafe for dogs. The ASPCA lists wrapped food and candy among holiday hazards. Check that treats are made for dogs.
A thoughtful extra
A note that says "this is a lot of work, and you are doing it kindly" costs nothing (our suggestion). Training takes weeks, not days. See what works fast and what does not.
A gift that comes with a plan
Brain Training for Dogs is an online course by certified trainer Adrienne Farricelli (CPDT-KA). It uses reward-based games to build focus and self-control, which is what most barking problems come down to. It costs about $47, one time.
See the courseRead our review firstCommon questions
What is a good gift for someone with a barking dog?
Things that make the training easier: privacy film for windows (PetMD says it can reduce barking without any training), a white noise machine, puzzle and treat-dispensing toys, soft treats for rewarding quiet, or an online reward-based training course.
Should I buy an anti-barking collar as a gift?
We advise against it. PetMD says you should never use punishment for dog barking and advises against anti-barking devices. AVSAB says there is no evidence aversive methods are more effective than reward-based ones. See our humane collar guide and device guide.
Is a training course a good gift?
It can be, if the owner wants a plan. Reward-based training is what AVSAB says the evidence supports for all canine training. Our review explains what Brain Training for Dogs includes and costs.
Related guides
- Calming Christmas gifts for anxious dogs
- Stop barking fast: what works
- Anti-barking devices
- Brain Training for Dogs review
Free printable: 7-Day Quiet Dog Plan
One small step a day for a barking dog: watch, remove the trigger, meet its needs and teach a quiet cue. Download the one-page PDF now, or get it by email along with a short series of five helpful emails.