Re: Liver and Bedtime

In Reply to: Liver and Bedtime
Category:   Barking
Posted by:  Jonna
Posted on:  September 24, 2002 at 08:39:29

: Hi All! I have two questions that are totally unrelated.

: First, how much liver is too much. When we are in class (agility and obedience), and when we practice, that's his favorite.

: Second, barking at bedtime. Every single night! A steady bark that just won't stop until he's darn good and ready - usually about 10 mins after lights out and my telling hin Quiet or Go to Sleep Sweetie. He gets his running around time during the day and he always goes out to do his business just before bedtime. I know this question has been addressed before but I can't seem to find a solution. Please tell me if I have missesd anything. I have left lights off, then on, radio off then on, replaced the bedding to something fluffy and soft, given him back an old favorite icky blanket, gotten a bigger crate, given treats, given toys, tried praise, tried correction. NOTHING seems to be working. I can't put him in the bedroom with me because of my cat (the are separated, and the cat likes my bedroom window). I have at times let him sleep with me in bed (and put the cat in the spare room with the door closed). Could I have "ruined" things, by doing this. I only do it once and a while and haven't done it in the last few weeks, in case I was confusing him.
: Anything you can suggest, I'll try it. We are moving soon. Unfortunately I'll have someone living directly under me, in back and next to me (Thank Heavens this is only temporary) ... but still ... I don't want to annoy everyone. He's such a perfect angel otherwise (in a terrier sort of way).
: Thank you!!!

Response:

Hi Jonna,

First answer: How much is "too" much depends upon the individual terrier. If your little guy is happy and healthy then the amount of liver treats he's getting is okay for him. :-)

Second answer: Since your terrier sleeps in his crate, I suggest you try putting his crate next to your bed. Being near you may be enough to solve the barking problem; at the least, you are "close" enough that any correction/reward immediately follows the behavior.

Take your time, Jonna...give everyone (!) a chance to get used to the new sleeping arrangements. And let us know how it goes...