Fully Implement Solutions to Ensure They Work

I visited a friend who needed to reduce their dog’s barking at passersby.
I gave them the same recommendation I give to many clients: apply frosted window film to block the dog’s view.

Pictured: window darkening film is applied on half of a window

• First try: They bought a film that only darkened the window instead of obscuring sight lines.

• Second try: They taped poster board over one of the two glass panels in their patio door. The dog simply looked out the uncovered panel and kept barking. The dog didn’t even have to move, it just looked slightly to one side.

I’ve seen similar situations where people frost only the front door, even though the dog can see out a side window just as clearly. When the dog keeps barking, they tell me, “That didn’t work.” But the real issue is that the job wasn’t finished.

These solutions aren’t magic. They only work if you:

• Use the right tools (the correct window film, the proper training technique),

• Apply them completely (cover all the windows, not just one), and

• Stick with them long enough for the dog to learn and adapt.

Commit fully to the solution—time, money, effort—and you’ll see the results you’re looking for.