"Watchdog Syndrome"

[denise52358]

I have a 3 month old Chihuahua - Delilah - who has discovered her voice. She now barks at any little noise she hears. I have tried telling her "no bark", in a stern voice to no avail. I have also tried ignoring her so as not to encourage her barking. I live in an area where barking is not an option with my neighbors. I also have a 6 year old black Chi who barks some but for the most part is quiet and stops barking when shushed. Any advice on curing watchdog syndrome? What has worked for you?

[vinjashira]

water spray works for me

[denise52358]

Tried water spray, she just looks at me and goes right on barking. I soaked the poor little thing!

[poofy]

What worked for me with SammyJ was, when he started barking I would hold his snout and say, NO.NO. and look him straight in the eye..It worked great..if I say no now he stops .cutie you have there

[denise52358]

Thanks! That sounds like a great idea...I'll try it!

[pitc9]

Something else you may try would be to keep a leash on her and keep her close to you. When she barks, give a little tug on the leash (just enough to get her attention) and tell her "No Bark".

[dab_20]

What I did for Molli, your dog sounds just like molli, is I would go over hold her snout and say "Stop it!". 'No bark' sounds better though. She never really learned that well but when I get really angry she senses it and will be quiet.

Basically what Poofy did should work.