Keep a dog calm around guests

Having friends and family over should be a joyful experience, not a stressful one. However, if your dog gets over-excited with visitors, it can quickly become chaotic when the doorbell rings – especially if you’re greeting a first-time visitor!

Don't fret—we've got some expert tips from the amazing Dr Rosalind Holland (BVSc, MVM, MANZCVS), that will help transform your bundle of chaos into a well-behaved host. Let's dive in and bring some peace back to your home and your pet.

How do I calm my dog down when visitors come?

When guests come over, it's like throwing a curveball into your pet's usual routine. Their arrival can either trigger excitement at the prospect of greeting a new friend, or an uncomfortable feeling at a perceived intruder.

First things first, let's acknowledge that this reaction is totally normal. Your dog is experiencing a sudden change in their environment, and it's natural for them to feel a bit unsettled, which can often include barking at strangers or anyone ‘new’ inside their home.

Stay calm yourself

Dogs are incredibly intuitive and can pick up on our emotions. If you're excited or anxious when guests arrive, your dog will mirror those feelings. Dr Holland advises, "The most important way to keep your dog calm around visitors is to keep calm yourself." Take a deep breath and remain composed to set a positive example for your dog.

Create some distance

According to Dr Holland, physically removing your dog from the situation can be very effective if they struggle to calm down. Putting them behind a gate or in another room can help reduce stimulation and allow them to relax.

It's important to note that this should be done positively, not as punishment. Give your dog their favourite toy or treat before they are separated so they associate it with something good.

Establishing a consistent routine can help your dog understand what to expect when visitors come.

How to calm your dog down when someone comes to the door?

A guest can bring some triggering noises, such as the doorbell or knocking, which can contribute to your dog's reaction. While this can be stressful at first, see this time as an opportunity to work on training and desensitisation.

Ignore the excitement

One simple yet effective way to calm your dog is to ask visitors to ignore them when they arrive. While this can be easier said than done, it helps your dog understand that they won't receive immediate attention for their excited behaviour. Dr Holland emphasises the importance of this step in managing an over-excited dog with visitors.

Provide valuable distractions

Giving your dog something to focus on other than the visitor can be very helpful. High-value treats or puzzle toys can keep them occupied and less interested in the newcomers. This distracts them and provides mental stimulation, which can tire them out and reduce their overall excitement levels.

Train an alternative behaviour

Dr Holland suggests training your dog to redirect their behaviour when the doorbell rings. "If your dog finds the doorbell a trigger for excitement, it may help to train them to go to a mat or a room and sit quietly, then reward this behaviour with a treat." Consistency is key to making this training effective.

How do I stop my dog from being reactive to visitors?

Reactivity in dogs can be challenging, but with the right approach, it's manageable. Here are some tips from Dr Holland to help you reduce your dog's reactivity towards visitors:

• Understand the triggers: Is it the sound of the doorbell, the sight of strangers, or something else? Once you know the triggers, you can work on desensitising your dog to them.
• Positive reinforcement: Whenever your dog stays calm in the presence of visitors, reward them with treats or praise. This helps them associate visitors with positive outcomes, reducing their reactive behaviour over time.
• Controlled greeting: Teach your regular visitors how to greet your dog for the first time. Ask them to remain calm and ignore undesired behaviours.
• Gradual exposures: Expose your dog to visitors slowly. Start with one person at a time and gradually increase the number of guests. This slow exposure helps your dog get used to having people around without becoming overwhelmed.
• Professional help: If your dog's reactivity is severe or persistent, see a CANZ accredited behaviour consultant or veterinary behaviourist. They can provide advice and training support to help you understand, manage and address your dog’s behaviour. 

Should I crate my dog when visitors come?

Crating can help manage your dog's excitement around visitors, but it's important to use it correctly. Only place your dog in a crate during visitor visits if they have been crate trained.

For some dogs, a crate can be a safe and comforting space. Dr Holland suggests that crating your dog can reduce excitement around visitors as long as the crate is associated with positive experiences. Fill the crate with comfortable bedding, toys, and treats to make it a happy place for your dog.

It is important to note that not all dogs take well to crating – it doesn’t mean it’s a one-size-fits-all all approach. Ensure your dog is not anxious or stressed when in the crate. Crating should never be used as a punishment but rather as a positive and safe space for your dog to relax.

If crating isn't suitable for your dog, consider other options like a gated area or a separate room where they feel secure. The goal is to create a space where your dog can retreat and calm down without feeling isolated or punished.

Keeping your dog calm around visitors is achievable with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement.

Remember, every dog is different, so finding what works best for your pet might take some time. Don't hesitate to seek professional help to address any ongoing or significant behaviour issues. To keep your pet protected, you might want to consider SPCA Pet Insurance, with three levels of cover to choose from to suit the needs of you and your pet.

For more insights into managing your dog's behaviour, check out our articles on managing resource guarding and chewing behaviour.