While most dog owners like the idea of their pup being a good watchdog by discouraging potential intruders with an intimidating glare and growl, it can become a nuisance when your dog goes berserk when a friend pops in or the mailman delivers a package.

Many dog owners struggle with their pet getting overexcited when there is a knock at the door or the doorbell rings. It can be easy to simply scold your dog, yank them away from the door and even yell in frustration at them. But it’s important to remember that dogs learn better from positive reinforcement rather than a negative response.

A good trick can be to teach your dog to sit at a particular spot somewhere within sight of the door. When you speak a command like “door” your dog should know to go to that particular spot where he or she will be rewarded with praise or even a treat.

Next, have someone else go outside and ring the doorbell or knock on the door. When your canine hears the sound, speak the command for him to go to his spot. The idea is to get your dog to see a visitor at the door that knocks or rings the doorbell as a chance to play a game and receive positive reinforcement.
Most dogs are excited by visitors because they see it as a chance to play and explore. So, feed off that desire by teaching your dog to respond with obedience and calmness.