Why Dog Barking Gets Worse Before It Gets Better: The “Extinction Burst” Explained

When you start training a dog to stop barking, there’s a frustrating moment almost every owner hits:

The barking gets worse.

This is called an extinction burst — a natural part of behavior change.
Understanding it can save you from giving up too early.

What Is an Extinction Burst?

An extinction burst happens when a dog tries harder to get the old reward or result from a behavior that used to work.

Example:
Your dog used to bark at the window → squirrel runs → dog thinks barking worked.
Then you block the window → suddenly barking doesn’t “do anything.”
Dog tries barking louder, longer, or faster.

This spike in barking lasts hours to days — not weeks.

It is not a sign that training is failing.
It is a sign that training is working.

Why Extinction Bursts Happen

✔ The old strategy stops working

The dog tries it harder before giving up.

✔ Barking has been rewarded in the past

Even unintentionally.

✔ Dogs test persistence

“Maybe if I bark louder, it’ll work this time.”

✔ Emotional habits take time to fade

Neural pathways don’t change instantly.

What Not To Do During an Extinction Burst

❌ Don’t yell
❌ Don’t give in (“Fine, here’s the toy!”)
❌ Don’t punish
❌ Don’t let the dog rehearse the barking
❌ Don’t assume this means your dog is stubborn

Giving in teaches:
“Barking harder makes them cave.”

What To Do Instead

1. Stay Extremely Consistent

Your new rule must remain the new rule.

2. Reinforce the RIGHT behavior

Reward even 1–2 seconds of quiet.

3. Add management

Block windows
Use gates
Add enrichment
Increase exercise
Reduce triggers

4. Use the Engage–Disengage Method

Reward calm observation around triggers.

5. Stick to your plan for at least 7–10 days

Most extinction bursts fade quickly.

Training Methods That Pair Well

• Positive Reinforcement
• Quiet Cue Method
• Redirection
• DS/CC
• Management tools

Tools That Help

• Window privacy films
• Sound masking tools
• Treat pouches
• Enrichment puzzles
• Exercise gear

Conclusion

Extinction bursts are a normal, predictable part of dog training.
If barking spikes briefly, don’t give up — you are on the edge of a breakthrough.

Read about all different types of dog barking-types HERE.