I’m having trouble with training my dog to be quiet. Everything I’ve read says to teach the “speak” command first, which I’ve done. Then, after he “speaks,” I’m supposed to say “quiet,” click, and reward for him being quiet, and then repeat the pattern between “speak” and “quiet.” I’ve spent hours trying to teach this to him, but he isn’t picking it up. When the neighbor’s dog barks, he barks too, and it’s driving me crazy. Any suggestions?
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If they are barking, wait until they’ve stopped — even for a second — to open the crate door or gate or to reward them with a treat or fresh puzzle toy. As they catch on being quiet gets them a treat, lengthen the amount of time they must remain quiet before being rewarded.
To increase your rate of success, practice both the “speak” and “quiet” cues often, and remember to keep it fun. Talkative dogs love to interact. With that said, some dogs aren’t big barkers. If your dog is not enjoying learning to speak, move on to practicing other dog training cues that both you and your dog will enjoy.