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How do I get the dogs to stop barking?

Lindsey W.'s profile image

I'm supposed to be at this clients house for an overnight stay. She was very kind and bought me some fruits and provided me with essential toiletries and whatnot.

The only thing is, her dogs don't seem to like me. She has six dachshunds and they don't stop barking. I'm 45 minutes into the sit, and it's been nearly nonstop. I tried sitting on the floor with them, holding my hand out, and removing myself from the room. They just keep on going unless they're taking water breaks. I'm not even doing anything to seem aggressive (in fact half of the time they're not even looking at me when barking). I think they're just barking because they hear another one barking. Like dog mob mentality.

I always thought I was good with dogs, but this is making me doubt myself, ahh. Any advice?

2 Answers

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Laura R.'s profile image

My best friend in stopping barking has been a squeaky ball. Even dogs who aren't big into toys are fascinated by the sound. The Kong balls are my favorite, especially the small size, since they're loud and you can tuck it in your pocket without making too big a lump. As soon as you've gotten their attention on the ball, you can reward the lack of barking. With dogs you don't know well and who don't trust you yet, maybe toss a handful of kibble down for them to hunt (assuming they don't have issues with food aggression). This will keep them occupied and quiet for at least a couple seconds, which may be all you need to break the cycle.

Also, I'm sorry!! Constant barking is one of the hardest things to deal with - it just grates on the nerves!

Comments

Those sound like great ideas! They've since gotten used to me and haven't been barking, but I will keep these tips in mind for next time when the owner goes out of town for two weeks in May!

Lindsey W.'s profile image Lindsey W.
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Mary C.'s profile image

Oh Lindsey, I feel your pain! I could be wrong, but this sounds like separation anxiety to me. I found an interesting article about separation anxiety here: http://www.happytailsspa-blog.com/200... I know you've probably tried many things to get the barking to stop, but hopefully this article can help!

Comments

Thanks Marcy! Separation Anxiety seems to be what it is; the owner has radios on in the rooms where their crates are. Anyways, for now they've stopped barking at me, so I feel better about that at least. Whatever is going on outside seems to be the main thing now.

Lindsey W.'s profile image Lindsey W.
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