Pets

Can’t leave your canine on his own for fear of barking?

IF YOUR DOG IS ALWAYS BARKING,

you’re not going to be very popular with the people next door. You could even be taken to court if you don’t do anything to stop the problem. Here are some ways to tackle this common (mis)behaviour.

ENGAGE IN ‘ALONE TRAINING’

Your dog may not like you going out, but he needs to get used to it. Start the ‘alone training’ by leaving your pet in different rooms, at first for a few minutes, then build up to longer periods. Don’t return until your dog has been quiet for a while, then offer praise and a treat as a reward.

PROVIDE THEM WITH COMPANY

If you have to leave your dog alone for a long period of time, arrange for a neighbour to pop in and perhaps take your beloved canine for a walk. Even the sound of a human voice can be reassuring to an animal, so leave the TV or radio on at low volume, tuned into a talk channel. Never leave your dog outside unsupervised all day and night.

CHANGE ROOMS

Some dogs bark because they can see what’s happening out in the street. Try keeping your pet somewhere so they can’t see the street, such as a room with a garden view instead.

TRY AN ANTI-BARKING COLLAR

You can now buy these ingenious collars that work by releasing a spray of citronella oil or giving a slight buzz when the dog barks. These collars surprise your canine but don’t cause it pain or harm.