Barking

[Doha]

Well love my dog really but if he doesnt stop barking soon he will be in a can of dog food...
Seriously he is an 18 month old cocker spaniel and in the last few months he has started barking if anyone passes the window or comes to the door. MY interior and front door are all scratched as he goes crazy trying to get to the door.
He is otherwise a really well behaved dog. Good with all commands etc but l am really at a loss on how to tackle this one.
Any experts out there got any ideas for me please

A friend of mine uses a water spray, every time her dog barks unnecessarily she squirts it, it seems to be working.

Much better to tackle this using positive reinforcement than to potentially damage the bond you enjoy with your dog by spraying him when he's already worked up.

Firstly, ignore it. You probably shout or tell him 'no'just now. As far as he's concerned you're just joining in.

Secondly, start teaching him what you want him to do instead. Build a really solid, reliable 'bed'command, rewarding him heavily with a toy, game or food treat each time he goes to 'bed'. Then once it's rock solid use it to interrupt barking sessions and heavily reward even small amounts of progress.

On phone and doing tea so not much detail but you get the idea, I hope.