Training a Mini Schnauzer to Not Bark at People

Although schnauzers are born to bark, they are highly trainable and can be taught to limit their barking.
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The famous “Barky Von Schnauzer” commercial is a favorite among schnauzer owners for good reason. Schnauzers are genetically geared to bark. Although you can’t stop your schnauzer from barking completely, you can train him to bark when appropriate and stop when asked.

Teach Him to Bark on Command

Step 1

Recruit a friend to help you first teach your schnauzer to bark on command. Training him to bark within your rules enables you to teach him when to be quiet.

Step 2

Position your volunteer outside your door.

Step 3

Tell your schnauzer to “speak” and have your friend ring the doorbell.

Step 4

Allow your schnauzer to bark a few times then hold a treat in front of him.

Step 5

Give your schnauzer a treat and praise him when he stops barking.

Step 6

Practice this method until he learns to “speak” on your command.

Teach Him to Be Quiet on Command

Step 1

Begin training him to be quiet on command once he has mastered barking on command. Start in a calm, quiet area without distraction.

Step 2

Ask your schnauzer to speak.

Step 3

Allow him to bark a few times, then say “quiet” and hold a treat in front of him.

Step 4

Praise him and give him a treat when he quiets.

Step 5

Add distractions such as your friend ringing the doorbell to his practice once he has learned to be quiet on command in a quiet area.

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