Let your dog give one good bark when the doorbell rings or someone knocks at the door. It is a good thing to have a warning from your dog, but interrupt with a firm, low toned “No Noise” if they continue to bark.
By practicing sit/stays when the doorbell rings, you will be teaching your dog good manners for when your guest arrives.
Keep in mind that not everyone is comfortable around dogs, and some people are scared of dogs. If your dog is under control this will ensure a polite greeting and put everyone at ease.
Consistency in a household is very important with training. Everyone needs to be on the same page and doing the same things or the dog will get confused and you will get nowhere.
This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.