How to Stop Your Dog from Barking at the Doorbell

According to for the Dogs, a Certified Dog Training Company in North Carolina, the First Thing You Should Do Is Record the Negative Sound — Like the Doorbell — on Your Phone. (If You Have an iPhone, Use the Voice Memo App.) Then, Make Sure You Have Plenty of Small Treats on Hand, Such as Tiny Pieces of Chicken or Training Treats. (Use Treats That Are Very Tasty. If Your Dog Really Enjoys the Flavor, He’ll Give You His Full Attention.) Here’s the Method:

Why This Method Works (And Tips on Making It Successful)

This Training Technique Is a Form of Positive Reinforcement, or the Act of Reinforcing a Behavior with a Desirable or Pleasant Stimulus. the Reward Makes the Experience Positive for the Dog, and Makes It More Likely That He’ll Want to Repeat the Behavior. in Addition, It Tells the Dog Exactly What He Should Do When He Hears a Certain Sound or Command.

How to Stop Your Dog Barking at the Doorbell

By James H. Sterling

• Oct 8, 2026 • 5 min read

How to Stop Your Dog Barking at the Doorbell

Direct Answer • Key Takeaway

If Your Dog Hears the Doorbell and Starts Barking Like Crazy, What Is the Right Thing to Do? A) Scold Him; B) Ignore Him; or C) Give Him a Treat? as Odd as It Sounds, C Is the Correct Answer — with a Few Extra Steps.

James H. Sterling

Environmental Science & Climate Journalist

James Sterling reports on renewable energy developments, climate policy, ecological conservation, and green tech innovations around the globe.

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