I'm going crazy

[mypepsee]

Do any of yall know of a way to get my 5 doggies to stop barking when I tell them to? A person in South Africa could drop a pin and they start barking :???: Also when the phone rings they all go crazy barking and I can't hear the person on the phone. ANY ideas??

[Amaze]

There are actually several things you can do, the best being to remove them from the situation. There is a great book-and I mean GREAT!-called the Dog Listener and she explains herself very well. The author talks about how multiple dog households are very similar to a wolf pack and how to make sure through you body language and actions that you are considered the Alpha or leader. She also explains that a simple and calm acknowledgement of the dogs "warnings" works best (like saying "thank you" once) and then to relieve them of the further responsibility of continuing to sound the alarm by removing them. Or, say "thank you" and then distract them with a small treat-they are barking because they are upset so instead of adding to their upset by making a fuss or yelling at them, a treat will not only shut their mouths, but connect a positive reward to a negative situation.

On a more simple note, you can try getting a spray bottle (like Window Cleaner comes in-but be sure to wash thoroughly with soap and water) and filling it with water. When the dogs bark, give one command like "Stop" or "Hush" or whatever and then if they continue, calmly spray them directly in the face once. If and when they stop, immediately praise them and and reward them with a small treat.

[Romans Mom]

Hi Anne, Yep, like Lys says, the treat method is what I use. Even if you don't have it right there at that moment, you can sure work with them all to pay attention to your hand thinking it's there. Work with them all the time "before the fact" and when the phone rings, then hold up your pinched fingers "like" the treat is there. You can reward them after.

I have also taught Elle how to "whisper" for a treat. She now mouths a silent bark for a treat.

Another thing...I have taught Roman and Elle to "speak" and this actually keeps them from barking all the time, but now just when I say speak...they wait for the command. It didn't take long to teach them this either.

Let us know how it goes. :)