Stopping a dog from barking excessively

my family recently adopted a lovely 7 year old dog from the pound.The dog is great apart from her excessive barking at other dogs. There are lots of other dogs in the area and when i take the dog out for a walk it goes barking mad when it spots another dog. I have tried spraying water on the its face when it barks; but this didnt make any difference. Ive done an internet search and discovered an "Anti-barking citronella collar to stop dogs' excessive barking dog." Anyone know where i can get one... or have any other tips? Please!

Not sure if the citronella collars are still available. They work by spraying the dog in the face with citronella everytime it barks. They can be tricky to set up as they have sensitivity levels. refills are not cheap.

The suggestion from Cara is a good one. The noise has to be loud and distinct enough to get the dog's attention away from the other dog and onto you. Try saying BAA firmly and in a deap voice at the same time as shaking the rattle. This should immediately put the dogs attention on you. If they stop barking give lots of praise (food treats if the dog is motivated that way) and keep walking. repeat process everytime dog barks. If the dog fails to respond stop walking and make him sit (if you can)- he needs to learn that he only gets the fun of a walk when he behaves well.

My experience with the citronella collars has been mixed - I would try training first.

If your helper also walks the dog make sure the same rules are followed - consistency is important.

I recommend the book, 'The Dog Listener' by Jan Fennel.

Deals with this problem and many more.

Just to clarify about the debarking operation available in Australia. This operation is not allowed to be performed unless every other method for stopping the dog barking has been exhausted, and the dog is going to be euthanised due to noise complaints. It would not be an option in your case until you could show you had tried everthing else first. Also they still make a noise after the surgery which can be just as annoying - although not so loud. Virtually every dog will respond to the right form of training and patience - if you have the time!