Ask a Trainer - Barking

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Q: My name is Jessica, and I'm hoping you can help me. I have a Basset Hound and a Lab. Twenty minutes after I step foot out the door, they start barking. The people next door have a 4-month-old baby and will not hesitate to call and let me know about my dogs. I have tried EVERYTHING. My Lab now has to wear a muzzle and doesn't really enjoy it! My Basset wears a training collar. They are only at home alone for about three to four hours at a time. How can I leave them home with out having to do this to them? -Jessica, Arlington, TX

A: Kudos to you for addressing this. To resolve this issue, we must first address why your dogs are barking. Most dogs who bark when left alone do so because they are bored and under-stimulated physically and mentally. Start by feeding meals in an interactive food toy. There are many wonderful choices on the market. The kibble or treat goes inside and then the dog has to maneuver the toy in such a way that the kibble is dispensed.

Next, take your dogs for a walk before you leave. It's fine to allow them to sniff along the way. Sniffing on walks is like reading the Canine Courier-"Hmm, Butch left his scent here...two-year-old Fifi was here- ooh la la!" Very mentally stimulating! Be sure they're plenty tired out by the walk. Endurance exercise such as long walks raise serotonin levels in the brain, which promotes calm. And that applies to both of you! Last, leave them with a stuffed Kong or other chew toy before you leave. You could also consider hiring someone or asking a friend to drop by and walk or play with the dogs, leaving a pre-prepared chew item upon departure. With their physical and mental needs met, your dogs should soon change from barking bozos into calm, quiet canines. ■

Nicole Wilde holds a B.A. Degree with a heavy emphasis on psychology. She is a Certified Pet Dog Trainer (CPDT) who specializes in behaviour issues, and a professional member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT). Nicole runs Gentle Guidance Dog Training in Southern California, training owners to work with their dogs' obedience and behaviour issues.