Re: Barking for attention

In Reply to: Barking for attention
Category:   Barking
Posted by:  Linda Becker
Posted on:  February 27, 2003 at 15:24:38

: Help! My dog barks at me whenever she wants attention. This can be for toys, treats, food, water (she has these available, but sometimes not quick enough to her liking), when I'm on the phone, etc. She's 10 months old and a sweetie except for this irritating habit. She gets a lot of exercise but is like velcro when I'm home. As I live alone with my other 12 year old wire-haired fox terrier, she doesn't have anyone else to bug. How do I break her of this? She is crate trained which has been a lifesaver, but don't want to use it for punishment.

Response:

Dear Linda,

Dogs do not deliberatly "bug" their owners. Dogs learn what they are taught and you've taught your pup that when she barks, you will respond. And it doesn't matter HOW you respond, Linda -- "punishing" her is a response and response equals attention.

Changing this particular type of behavior is difficult because it requires that an owner do the exact opposite of what they have been doing. Ignoring the barking for attention by walking away is the first step; rewarding appropriate behavior (obeying commands to sit for meals, treats, praise) is the next.

You were patient and consistent enough to crate train your pup, Linda, so you can make this change for yourself and for your little one.