Let’s face it: even the most devoted dog parent can feel frazzled by constant barking or a dog who treats your favourite couch like a scratching post. But before you resign yourself to a life of noise complaints or shredded furniture, take a deep breath—help is here. With patience, understanding, and a few proactive steps, you can curb these behaviours and restore peace to your home. Plus, we’ll share how services like dog daycare in Brisbane or pet boarding on the Sunshine Coast can support your journey.

Why Do Dogs Bark or Scratch?

Dogs aren’t trying to frustrate you—they’re simply communicating. Barking and scratching are normal behaviours for pets, but when they become too frequent or damaging, it may indicate a deeper concern. A frequent cause is boredom. Dogs that don't receive enough mental and physical stimulation might bark or scratch to express their pent-up energy.

Anxiety can be a significant trigger, especially when it comes to separation anxiety or the fear of loud noises such as thunder or doorbells. Many dogs bark to catch your attention, signalling that they’re ready for playtime, food, or some loving affection. On the other hand, scratching is often a natural instinct. Dogs might scratch for various reasons, such as marking their territory, stretching their muscles, or even keeping their nails naturally trimmed.

Recognising the reasons behind your dog's behaviours is the initial step towards resolving the matter. Understanding the root cause enables you to choose the best approach, whether that means increasing exercise, offering enrichment activities, or helping your dog feel more secure in their surroundings.

How to Stop Excessive Barking

1. Identify the Trigger

Alert Barking: Doorbells, strangers, or other dogs.
Boredom Barking: Left alone for hours without stimulation.
Anxiety Barking: Whining or howling when separated from you.

Pro Tip: Film your dog when you’re out. Apps like Furbo can help spot patterns.

2. Train the “Quiet” Command

Let your dog bark 2–3 times, then say “Quiet” calmly.
Hold a treat near their nose—the smell often stops barking.
When they pause, praise and reward.
Repeat until they associate silence with treats.

3. Burn Energy (Physically and Mentally)

A tired dog is a quiet dog.

Exercise: Aim for 30–60 minutes of walks, fetch, or swimming daily.
Mental Stimulation: Puzzle toys, sniffing games, or training sessions.
Socialisation: Enroll them in dog daycare for playtime with pals.

4. Block the View

If your dog barks at passersby:

Close curtains or use frosted window film.
Move their bed away from high-traffic areas.

5. Address Separation Anxiety

Desensitize Departures: Practice leaving for short periods (start with 1 minute).
Calming Aids: Adaptil diffusers, anxiety wraps, or white noise machines.
Professional Care: Use dog kennel boarding with experienced staff if travel stresses your pup.

How to Stop Destructive Scratching

1. Provide Alternatives

Scratching Posts: Place near their favourite “scratch zones.” Rub catnip on it to attract use.
Digging Pits: For outdoor scratchers, fill a kiddie pool with sand or dirt.

2. Trim Nails Regularly

Long nails can be quite uncomfortable for dogs, impacting their walking and potentially leading to pain. This discomfort can result in excessive scratching, which affects surfaces and even themselves. Trimming your pup's nails regularly is a great way to keep their paws healthy and happy. If you're feeling a bit uncertain about doing it on your own, don't hesitate to reach out to your vet or a friendly professional groomer for some help. They can guide you on the right technique or take care of the trimming for you, making sure your dog's nails stay at a comfortable length.

3. Use Deterrents

If your dog has started scratching furniture, doors, or other surfaces, using deterrents can be a great way to gently guide them towards better habits. Double-sided tape is a straightforward and handy solution—many dogs find the sticky feeling on their paws unpleasant, which helps deter them from scratching the areas where it’s used. Try placing it on the edges of furniture or spots where your dog often scratches to help discourage that behaviour.

Another great choice to consider is bitter sprays such as Grannick’s Bitter Apple. These pet-safe sprays have a flavour that dogs don't enjoy, helping to keep them from chewing or scratching your household items. They are great for furniture, wooden door frames, and even pet beds, especially if your dog has a habit of scratching a lot. If your dog is scratching because of boredom or anxiety, combining deterrents with fun enrichment activities like puzzle toys or extra playtime can help create a lasting solution.

4. Redirect & Reward

Catch them mid-scratch? Clap once to interrupt, then guide them to a post.
Praise and treat when they use the post.

5. Rule Out Medical Issues

Persistent scratching isn’t always behavioural—it could be a sign of an underlying health issue. Skin allergies, fleas, dry skin, or even infections can cause your dog to scratch obsessively. If you notice excessive scratching, redness, hair loss, or irritation, it's best to consult your vet. They can identify potential allergens, recommend treatments, or suggest dietary changes to help soothe your dog’s skin and keep them comfortable.

When to Seek Professional Help

While many issues can be solved at home, don’t hesitate to ask for backup:

Trainers: Look for force-free experts in anxiety or reactivity.
Vets: Rule out pain, arthritis, or skin conditions.
Boarding Services: Facilities like dog and cat boarding or pet boarding in Caboolture centres offer structured environments for dogs needing routine during your absence.

Prevention: Set Your Dog Up for Success

Routine is Everything: Feed, walk, and play at the same time daily.
Safe Spaces: Create a cozy den with their bed and toys.
Alone Time Practice: Gradually increase time apart to build confidence.
Enrichment Toys: Rotate puzzles and chew toys to prevent boredom.

How Pet Care Services Can Help

Sometimes, a little extra support makes all the difference. If your dog barks excessively or scratches due to boredom or separation anxiety, professional pet boarding services can provide a structured environment to keep them happy and engaged.

Giving your dog a safe, structured, and engaging environment through pet care services can go a long way in reducing unwanted behaviours while ensuring they remain happy and well-cared for.

Progress Over Perfection

Change won’t happen overnight, but consistency pays off. Celebrate small wins—like five minutes of quiet or using the scratching post—and lean on resources like trainers or pet boarding facilities when needed, like us at Aussie Pet Resort. Remember, your dog isn’t giving you a hard time; they’re having a hard time. With love and the right tools, you’ll both feel calmer in no time.

Here’s to quieter days and scratch-free sofas.

How to Stop Your Dog From Barking or Scratching: Gentle Solutions for Stressed Paws (and Parents)