Barks a lot when we're out

Coco · 08-16-2007, 03:52 PM

Hi again, everyone

We found out today that our dog barks a lot when nobody's home and it's bothering the neighbor. We saw on the show The Dog Whisperer that they put him in a small crate and Cesar said that the lack of space to move around keeps the dog from getting too anxious.

Is this a good idea? Any other ideas on getting him to stop barking?

EDIT: One more thing, how much space should he have in the crate? Should he be able to stretch?

Thanks.

Dan & Aixa

sydney-the-cattle-dog · 08-16-2007, 04:27 PM

A crate should be large enough for the dog to stand, turn around, and comfortably lay down.

Using a crate is a good idea for an anxious or bored dog that is left home alone for long periods of time.

You will need to introduce the crate in a positive fun manner at first and then always keep it a good place to be for the dog. Keep special treats or toys for crate time only so that your dog has something special to look forward to. Kongs make excellent crate items and can be stuffed with yummy treats that take some effort to get completely out.

Coco · 08-16-2007, 04:33 PM

That's very interesting! Our dog Coco is okay with his crate. He sleeps in there pretty often. Thanks for the great idea, but do you put the toy/treat in with him every time you leave the house?

Dan & Aixa

sydney-the-cattle-dog · 08-16-2007, 05:47 PM

I usually put something in the crate with my dogs but occasionally I'll just ask them to go in the crate without anything because I am in a hurry and the trip out will be short. Anytime I plan to be out for an hour or longer I toss in a stuffed kong and maybe another chew toy.

I like to stuff the kongs with kibble, plain yogurt, peanut butter, cream cheese, dog biscuits or crumbled treats. If you mix something dry with a wet or creamy ingredient it makes for a nice stuffing to then freeze inside the kong. My dogs love a frozen kong and it also makes the stuffing last longer and keeps them very busy trying to lick it out.

Coco · 08-16-2007, 07:52 PM

We walked him for an hour and a half, and along the way bought the crate toy. We tried it when we got home, but it was probably too soon. It was the first time we closed the crate. Coco went crazy. And when we just left the room that his crate is in, he started barking.

He calmed down and stayed in his crate for 30 mins., but he knew we were home. Then we let him out and gave him a treat and some affection.

I suppose we have to work on short periods of time, yes?

Dan & Aixa

sydney-the-cattle-dog · 08-16-2007, 08:42 PM

Short periods of time at first and then make crate time longer as her gets more comfortable with the idea that you will be back.

You might try loading him in and shutting the door for just a few minutes and then let him out. If he cries, barks or makes any fuss just ignore until you get a quiet moment and take that opportunity to let him out. With repetition he will learn that fussing and crying doesn't get him out but quiet calmness does.

Also make sure not to fuss over him as you leave or when you return. No emotional goodbys or hellos. I completely ignore my dogs once they are in the crate and I wait till I release them before giving happy greeting.

I wish I could tell you how long it wil take to adjust but each dog is different.

poodleholic · 08-17-2007, 01:43 AM

Yes, short periods of time at first while crate training. What helps some dogs is to play soothing music while gone, and/or place a blanket over the top of the crate, or just a portion of the crate.

A tired dog is a good dog, so plan on a good, brisk walk and some play before you leave.