Barking

[Sdsamaras]

My dog barks at the fence when any body walks past, the main problem is that at the end of my back garden is a main road. The neighbours are getting annoyed by the dog barking all the time. We have tried to keep him in but he just barks out of the cat flap.

If any body has any surgestions how to stop the dog barking, or has the same problem please could you reply. If i dont get a solution soon we will have to get rid of him.

[teena]

Sounds like the dog has 2 things going on:
boredom and territorialism. The first thing I would suggest is keeping the dog occupied either by giving it a Kong with food inside or something to chew on. If dog just being territorial, put a few nickels in a soda can and whenever the dog barks, shake the can real hard. Dogs hate the noise, and will eventually figure out that the can means "no barking".

[lhg0962]

Try a "no bark" collar from Cabela's. It worked wonders on Honey, my barker. She was cured of most of her barking episodes in two sessions of wearing the collar at it's lowest stimulation and no side effects. It was the best $100 I ever spent.

[Sdsamaras]

I live in the UK i have never heard of such a product. Do you know if there is any where that sells them in UK.

[carrie]

Hi,
A few years ago the U.K. canine press was full of such devices but they were largely disapproved of by trainers and the like and, in my humble opinion, it was no loss that they gradually dissappeared. You can still purchase these things, and the canine magazines may still carry some adverts for them. But please consider going to a dog training class or finding a behaviour specialist first as solving a problem like barking in a canine sensitive manner will bring you more rewards than just the quietness!

[This message has been edited by carrie (edited October 12, 2000).]

[teena]

I agree with Carrie. I would NEVER put a bark collar on a dog. Would be just like someone putting a shock collar on you for one of your bad habits (overeating, drinking, smoking, etc.) Try the nickels in the soda can. It really does work, and no pain involved.

[karen israel]

Logan..what catalogue did you find the collar? Maybe they have an email address or fax number for the UK. I have some Steele etc books at home if you don't. Email me if I can help..Karen

[Crispy]

I hope that your problem eases, my German Shepherd barks at the front door when someone passes by too close. Luckily I have got good neighbours who give my front door a wide berth, i think it is probably a terratorial thing, just letting people know that they are around. Sorry but I have no easy solution for this problem, just perseverance - and definately no shock treatment.

[carrie]

Hi,me again,
Can I just explain a bit why I am against all such "magic cure" devices?
Once fitted to your dog the collar acts with no discretion at all. Bark for any reason and physical punishment is instant. Of course it is effective but do you really want a dog that is not displaying natural behaviour at any time because it fears physical discomfort? Why not save your money and get a big stick?! The psychological impact could cause you untold future problems. It really is a case of teaching your dog a more appropiate way of behaving using rewards and over the top praise for correct behaviour. Yeah it takes a little time and effort but your relationship with a mentally healthy dog will be the reward along with happy neighbours and a sense of achievement for yourself.