Let me start by saying that barking is not always a bad thing.
Your dog's bark is her way of communicating to us and we DO want her to give voice under certain circumstances.
There is absolutely nothing wrong - as a matter of fact, it should be encouraged - with your dog barking when she has to go potty or if she's hungry, and of course if there is a strange person or animal lingering around the house or yard.
However, there are certain times when a dog will bark uncontrollably just to get you to do something for her.
In other words, she is barking just to manipulate you.
For example, your dog may want to play, so she will start barking until you give her the attention she wants.
There are respect issues in play here, and by your dog acting out like this, she is showing you no respect.
And when it comes to dog ownership, respect has to go both ways in order to have a happy healthy relationship.
The good news is that you CAN get that respect back by humanely teaching your dog that you will not put up with any more of her manipulative barking: * Body Language - Simply turn your back on your dog.
Do not look at her or even speak to her - not even a "no!".
Patience and consistency is the key to using this method when you are teaching your dog not to bark.
Stick to your guns and don't give in to your dog, and soon enough, the message will sink in when she gets enough of the cold shoulder.
* Use Your Hands - No, don't beat your dog!! An extremely effective way of teaching your dog not to bark is by reaching out and grabbing her muzzle gently, but firmly.
With your other hand, grasp her leash tightly when she tries to wriggle free from your grasp.
Don't let go until your dog completely calms down, and when she finally does, hold on for another couple seconds, then release her.
If your dog stays settled for a few moments after that, make sure you offer her praise for being good at that point.
* Exercise - Some dogs have a nervous, built up energy that causes them to exhibit undesired barking.
If your dog's constant barking is coupled with agitated behavior, such as fidgeting or restlessness, more exercise may be the easy fix.
Try giving your dog an extra 30 to 45 minutes of extra walking a day and see if that does the trick.
If your dog is trying to bully you with her bark, try one or two of these things in order to show her that this unwarranted barking will no longer be tolerated.
Keep in mind that it is unrealistic, not to mention unfair, to try and keep your dog from barking at all, but it is definitely OK to teach her who's boss and let her disrespect go no further.