The Humane Society of Denver says a barking dog can cause neighborhood disputes and violations of animal control ordinances. If your dog's barking has created neighborhood tension, then it's a good idea to discuss the problem with your neighbors and tell them you are taking steps to modify it.

Determine when and for how long your dog barks and what's causing the barking. Is the dog left alone for long periods of time? Is the dog's environment barren, without playmates or toys? Is it a young dog with few outlets for his or her energy? Is it a herding or sporting dog who needs a "job" to be happy?

Recommendations:

Walk your dog daily.

Teach the dog to fetch a ball or Frisbee.

Teach commands for five to 10 minutes a day.

Take an obedience class with your dog.

Provide interesting toys to keep your dog busy when you're not there. Rotating the toys makes them more interesting.

When you are away, don't take away toys as punishment for barking. The dog won't know why the toy is gone. Instead, he or she will be bored and restless, and probably bark more.

When you have to leave for extended periods, take your dog to a "doggie day care" or have someone lined up to take Fido for a walk outside.

Teach your dog a "quiet" command. When he or she barks at someone, allow two or three barks, then say "Quiet." Interrupt the barking by shaking a can filled with pennies; this will startle your dog into being quiet, and then you can present a reward.