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Training is the answer for handling a dog who barks at guests

by Doggone Well Staff
April 24, 2024
in PETS
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Cathy M. Rosenthal, Tribune Content Agency

I adopted a year-old dog from the SPCA (a Chipoodle). He is protective, but only in the house. When we're out on walks, he's fine if I stop and talk to anyone, or if anyone approaches. But at home, when the doorbell rings or anyone enters the house, he starts barking loudly.

He doesn't growl. If I give him a bunch of treats, he settles down and will even get in their laps. But then, when they get up to leave, he starts barking again. I am taking him to training, and he's taken agility classes. He's now in intermediate obedience. It would be better if he stopped barking when people came to the house. How can I solve this problem?

— Debbie, Carrollton, Virginia

Barking is always a challenging behavior to change or alter, but it can be done with consistent training. Instead of trying to eliminate barking entirely, teach your dog a command to stop barking once he's alerted you. This allows him to maintain his instincts to alert you. Given your dog's positive response to training, this approach should work well in addressing the issue.

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The key is desensitizing him to triggers that prompt the barking. Start by associating a “quiet” command with moments of silence your dog experiences throughout the day, using a clicker or reward word like “Bingo” to mark the desired behavior.

Then, gradually expose him to triggers like the doorbell or guests entering and leaving the home. Reward any calm behavior that occurs during the visit. Then try the “quiet” command when the guest gets up to leave. This can take time for your dog to learn, so be patient.

Teaching him an alternative behavior, such as sitting, can also redirect his attention away from barking. I often use the “sit” command immediately after various commands, like “stop jumping” or “quiet” to provide an alternative focus for my dogs.

While dogs can sit and bark, they are less likely to do so because sitting is a physical change interrupting the behavior. Giving your dog some puzzle toys when guests are over may also redirect his focus so he doesn’t realize when guests are leaving.

Given his overall positive behavior, I believe he'll pick up the new “quiet” command swiftly.

We adopted Bubba, a two-year-old stray cat, in March 2023. He's developed a loving, dog-like personality. A couple of months after adoption, he started licking himself bald. The vet said it was probably stress, so we switched to a different kibble and started using a pheromone diffuser. This seemed to help, and over the summer, Bubba's fur grew back.

In August, this all started again. Numerous tests revealed FIP, and Bubba was started on prednisolone. He's had intermittent vomiting since adoption, preferring kibble over canned food.

Recently, there's been an increase in licking and balding on his belly. He may be eating too quickly, which could be contributing to the vomiting. We're considering revisiting the vet for further advice, as we want to ensure we're doing what's best for our beloved Bubba. Do you have any advice?

— Amy, Corvallis, Montana​

Dealing with a diagnosis like FIP can be challenging, but each cat's experience varies, and some felines can live with the disease for a while. Keeping a detailed record of Bubba's symptoms in relation to his activities and eating during the day can provide valuable information for your vet, who may suggest additional supportive measures, such as dietary adjustments or supplements, to manage his symptoms and improve his quality of life. If you feel you've exhausted your options, seeking a second opinion from another vet or specialist could provide fresh insights.

Next, if you're concerned about Bubba eating too quickly, consider using a slow feeder bowl. Then, using previous observations, try to determine if it's the pace of food consumption or the food itself that is causing the vomiting.

Licking belly hair is a sign of stress. Pheromones can help reduce stress but combine them with over-the-counter calming chews or anxiety-reducing clothing.

Additionally, providing plenty of environmental enrichment, such as interactive toys, scratching posts, and cozy hiding spots, can help Bubba feel more secure. Creating a peaceful and predictable routine can contribute to his overall well-being and reduce stress.

Finally, shower Bubba with love and attention, trusting your instincts as his caregiver. Your dedication to helping him live a good quality of life for as long as possible is commendable. Try these minor tweaks and gather a little more information to see if you can continue to build on those efforts.

(Cathy M. Rosenthal is a longtime animal advocate, author, columnist and pet expert who has more than 25 years in the animal welfare field. Send your pet questions, stories and tips to cathy@petpundit.com. Please include your name, city, and state. You can follow her @cathymrosenthal.)

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