Border Collies are an extremely energetic breed of dog but when they are left to their own devices they tend to get bored and bark excessively. If you have a problem with your Border Collie barking it not only affects you and your family but your neighbors and half the people in your suburb as well.

It is important to deal with your dog's barking problem as soon as possible, preferably while your dog is still a puppy and hasn't learnt too many bad behaviors. It is likely that your dog barks the most when you are away from home. If neighbors start mentioning the barking, you know it is likely to be loud and excessive. Border Collies often start barking as soon as you are walking out the door so there are usually obvious signs even if it is not in your presence.

A lot of Border Collies bark in their owners presence as well. Often the trigger is a visitor entering the property or a perceived threat outside your property but within close proximity. For example, this may include the mailman making a delivery or a person or dog walking past your house. There are a variety of triggers for dog barking and the first thing you should do to stop the barking is identify what is causing it. Once you know the cause it is easier to stop the behavior.

Here are the five top tips to stop your Border Collie barking:

1. Block the line of sight between your dog and the cause of the barking;

2. Restrict your dog's access to the boundary of your property if there is a certain trigger there;

3. Install an opaque fence so that your dog can still roam freely in your yard but cannot see perceived threats to his territory that he must defend;

4. Use crate training effectively to provide a safe place that your dog can call his own;

5. Provide adequate exercise and play for your dog so he uses up excess energy and is not bored. A bored dog will bark and try to get attention.

Excessive dog barking is not acceptable and not something you have to put up with. By providing your dog with the right training you will reduce stress for your family and your neighbors. With good training you will enjoy spending time with your Border Collie instead of wondering how to cope with his annoying barking problem.

Border Collie dog training can be enjoyable for both the dog and the dog owner. At times you will get frustrated and want to throw the towel in but don't give up. With a little patience you can achieve great results.