Dog barking is unlikely to damage a baby’s ears, as it typically ranges between 80-90 decibels. Although experts recommend against exposing babies to noises above 60 decibels for extended periods, a dog usually barks for only a few minutes unless upset, bored, hungry, or unhealthy. Thus, your baby should be safe unless your dog is excessively loud or barking continuously. The nature of barking can also vary depending on the breed and the dog’s level of training, which further determines the potential risk to your baby’s hearing.
Here are some ways you can train your dog to be quiet, generally and especially around your babies.
Read More: Can Dog Barking Cause Tinnitus?
Tips to Control Dog Barking Around Your Babies
Quiet command
Teach your dog a “quiet” command, which helps them understand when to stop barking. Consistently reinforce this command through praise or treats when they obey, helping them associate the command with a positive outcome. This enables better control over your dog’s barking around babies.
Anti-Bark devices
These devices emit sounds, vibrations, or mild electric shocks to deter excessive barking. By using an anti-bark device, you can help manage your dog’s barking behavior without causing harm, ensuring a quieter environment for your baby. One such device is Barks No More. You can use it on most breeds and on dogs aged 6 months to 8 years.
Keep your dog well cared for, fed, and relaxed around the baby
Ensuring your dog is well cared for, properly fed, and relaxed can reduce their need to bark. A calm and content dog is less likely to bark excessively, providing a more peaceful atmosphere for your baby.
Animal control or 911 (only for neighbors’ dogs)
If a neighbor’s dog is barking uncontrollably and causing distress to your baby, consider contacting animal control or, in extreme cases, dial 911. This should be a last resort when other solutions have failed, or the situation is dangerous.
Sounds to Avoid around Babies
You must not expose your baby to loud noises like vacuum cleaners, loud TV and radio, car exhausts, and sharp noises that may scare your baby.
How to keep my Baby Safe around a Loud Barking Dog?
- Create distance: Keep the baby’s nursery or play area separated from the dog’s living space. This reduces the impact of the dog’s barking on your baby.
- Soundproofing: Consider adding soundproofing materials to your baby’s room, such as weather-stripping, door sweeps, or acoustic panels, to minimize noise intrusion.
- White noise: Use a white noise machine or app in the baby’s room to help mask the sound of the dog’s barking, creating a soothing environment for the baby.
- Monitor interactions: Always supervise interactions between your baby and the dog to ensure safety and intervene when necessary.
- Consistent routine: Maintain a consistent daily routine for your dog, including regular walks, playtime, and feeding schedules, to minimize anxiety or stress, which can contribute to excessive barking.
- Noise-canceling headphones: Use noise-canceling headphones specifically designed for babies. Make sure you select the best one to keep your baby comfortable.
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