[K9-Lovers]

To piggyback on bike42's comments .. .. ..

I can't imagine anyone complaining about dogs that only bark occasionally . . . and I don't think you can train any dog to not express joy when seeing their owner return home, or keep them from alerting you when they suspect someone is in their territory. There are methods to teach dogs to stop barking on command, but of course, that doesn't work if you are not home.

Dogs bark when you are not at home because they are bored. Always keep your dogs indoors when you are not at home without access to the lanai.

The best way to keep a lonely dog from barking that I've found is called a "kong" which is a tough rubber tube-like toy that can be stuffed with something yummy. Kongs come in difference sizes and are indestructible. You can fill it with peanut butter, or hard treats. Dogs lick and lick and kick the thing around trying to get the goodies inside. It keeps dogs occupied for a long time if you put the treats in just right so they don't fall out. You can squeeze the kong and insert a wide treat, then when it snaps back to it's round shape, the treat stays inside.

There are other ways to keep dogs from being too bored like hiding kibble or small treats throughout the house. I put my dogs in a separate room, close the door, and let them out when I'm finished hiding their treats. They will hunt and search the whole house over and over hoping to find another little tidbit. This also serves to fulfill their hunting instinct so it is very enjoyable for them.

Also, if you play a radio or tv while you are gone, the sound often masks noises from outside, and also gives the dog a comfortable feeling.