I don't want to get too off-topic, but I heartily disagree with the argument that dogs who bark haven't been taught otherwise, or that it is 100% a question of training or persistence on the owner's part.
A statement that doesn't consider nature (genetics) and only thinks of nurture (training) is doing a disservice to the dog and to the breeders who work hard to select for certain traits (like less barking).
I just read your response,and I still don't understand what you are saying?
My stance on thie issue of working with my dogs,exposing them to all of these things that would set off another dog,is my way of teaching manners. There is a time & place for barking. And overall harmony of my home. What I consider harmony & quiet,may not be someone elses norm for thier home.
One has to sleep,we sleep during day times,and these guys are used to the routine.Brian has worked 3rd shift since we got married,even back in the day with Earnhardt,he was taught to hush. It can be a learned behavior.
It is what it is. I understand the genetics of shelties,and barking is a trait,but over the top barking,and living in a home with multiples that are out of control with barking over silly things,it can be controlled.
I have one dog is reactive,the other is not. I mean reactive,to moving things. He is constantly on alert.The other is about as laid back as it gets.
But even in Jasper's wildest moments,he can be hushed from barking,and he listens,becuase he knows it is not acceptable. He might grumble,as he always has to have the last word,but the barkfest stops.
I just do not tolerate it.I don't scream at the top of my lungs to be heard.It simply is a hand motion,they know what it means,but its been taught from an early age.
I'm not discrediting anyone,everyone has thier ways of living with thier dogs,be it one or be it 5-6-7 etc...but I feel for our home,when I need it quiet,it needs to be quiet. We all have our ways. Shelties are shelties,they bark. But it can be controlled,with consistancy,patience,compassion.
! When the only dog I had was F-kap it was almost always quiet. If he did start to bark without reason all I would have to do is say 'F-kap! Hush.' if he was in front of me or knock on the back door when he was outside. I have maneged to get Jody and my mom's sheltie, Sarah, to do the same, but Ida, OHHHHH, she drives me nuts! I can't make her stop for anything! No matter how many times I told my dad not to get her barking as a young pup he would get carried away with playing with and spoiling her
!

! Or at least I HOPE it's not
!? Jody does it to! And yes he's a boy Jody. 