Fence Fighting: How to Stop Your Dog Barking at the Neighbor's Dog
Why dogs react to dogs behind fences, and a calm, step-by-step plan to help yours, from the CalmWalk team.
Why it happens
Fence running and barking is self-rewarding and builds frustration on both sides. Every session rehearses reactivity, which often spills over onto walks.
What to do, step by step
- Block access to the fence line where the fight happens (temporary fencing or supervision).
- Walk routes that avoid the barking dogs while you train.
- When you must pass, cross the street and feed treats continuously.
- Give your dog other yard activities: sniff games, digging box, toys.
- Practice Look at That from inside your yard at a distance.
The 4 steps that work for most reactive dogs
- Stop the daily blow-ups first. Walk at quieter times, on routes with wide views, and swap some walks for sniff walks. Why this matters.
- Find your dog's safe distance, where it can notice a dog and still take a treat. The 10-minute distance test.
- Teach a few simple skills at home: a marker word, name-turn, hand touch and an emergency U-turn.
- Make other dogs predict good things with short "Look at That" sessions. Step-by-step guide.
Calm Walks in 30 Days
The 30-day plan for dogs who bark, lunge and lose it at other dogs on leash. 10–20 minutes a day, reward-based, 6 printable tools.
See the plan →Not sure yet? Take the free 2-minute quiz
Related situations
- Dog Going Crazy at the Doorbell? Calm Your Reactive Dog at Home
- Why Dogs Hate Skateboards (and How to Help Yours Stay Calm)
- Hiking With a Reactive Dog: Trail Tips for Calm Encounters
- Dog Barking at Dogs on TV: Harmless or a Sign of Reactivity?
- Dog Reactive Only to Small Dogs? Here's What's Going On
- All situations
Educational content from the CalmWalk team. Not veterinary or behavioral advice for your specific dog. If your dog has bitten, or behavior changed suddenly, see your veterinarian and a certified professional.