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"Bossy" dog
I have a problem with one of my dogs barking excessively. He is a very friendly and loving dog but is very needy when it comes to attention and he is very demanding when he wants something. Most of his barking is directed at me. He is very obedient when it comes to most other things and usually if I say NO that is all it takes for him to stop any unwanted behaviors. But with the barking he will just stop for a couple of seconds and start right back. His barking is very demanding. I'm sure my reaction doesn't help because I will either tell him to stop, which is giving him attention, or I will just try to figure out what he wants to make him stop. Also, my husband has been out of town for work a lot lately and this behavior seems to get much worse when his "Daddy" is gone. What advice do you have to stop this kind of behavior? Thank you!
Answer:
Sounds like you already know the answer. You have to reward your dog for the behavior you want him to exhibit. If you give in while the barking is going on and give him what he wants, then he has simply learned how to get you to do what he wants you to do … bark incessantly. And if you tell him to stop, you are just giving him attention.
Ignoring the behavior, however, is just half of the solution. You also have to reward the behavior that you do want. All too often, we leave that part out. We are so relieved that our dog is quiet, that we ignore him. Instead, you have to reward the quiet, calm behavior. Behaviors that are rewarded are repeated. Conversely, behaviors that are ignored will be extinguished.
You also need to determine the underlying cause for the barking. Remember, however, that barking, whining, howling and growling is a dog’s natural means of communication. Barking can signify territorial protection, a demonstration of dominance, or an expression of some need. Typically, barking is a means of communication triggered by a state of excitement. Given that his barking is directed primarily at you and that it is worse when your husband is not at home and you probably are much busier than usual,, it is likely that he is not getting enough exercise.
Lack of exercise is a common cause of excessive barking. When a dog is not provided with adequate exercise, pent-up energy can be released through barking. Consider hiring a dog walker to help relieve both you and your dog. Visit the National Association of Professional Petsitters (www.petsitters.org) or Pet Sitters International (www.petsit.com) to find a dog walker in your area.
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