Barking at other dogs and people

Chrystie22 · #1 22-12-10, 09:09 AM

Just wanted to pick your brains about something: Diva is very well socialized and loves meeting new people or dogs, however lately she has developped a new habit that is a bit of a pain; whenever we meet people on the street or park, she is happy for them to come pet her but then she starts barking at them and it can be a bit embarrassing as you see people's attitude change immediately - from thinking ''oh what a cute dog'' to ''or maybe not'' - same goes with dogs! We know she only barks because she gets excited and it's her way of communicating but people or dog owners might not see it that way. Any advice on how to deal with her barking?

Tedsmum · #2 22-12-10, 10:20 AM

Yes mine went through the same stage and will still do it when on lead at times of high excitement.
Teach Diva the "Quiet" command and maker her sit and tell her quiet when she starts doing it.
You can do this by teaching her to "Speak" for treats and then introducing the "Quiet" command when she stops barking.
Sounds weird but it does work.
Also do not walk towards whatever she is barking at until she is quiet.
Don't be over worried about it but as you say it is a habit you want to try and get her out of because of her breed and other people's attitude.
If she were a cocker spaniel no one would take any notice.

LOVEGSD · #3 22-12-10, 11:22 AM

I have to agree with Gill, don't allow her to meet another dog/person whilst she's barking cos you are rewarding her for it.

Teach the 'quiet' command.

colly · #4 22-12-10, 11:36 AM

Absolutely agree with Gill. Boris went through this phase of high excitement barking when he met people or dogs, but I whenever I saw a situation about to develop I would make him sit and get him quiet and reward him for that. Don't worry, keep calm and relaxed and you'll make good progress ... I did!

Colin

sami · #5 22-12-10, 11:37 AM

Sami went through this stage its lasted 12 years so far!!!

It is embarassing she used to only do it to dogs and I have tried everything to stop her but she has beaten me. Now she cant see so well she barks at people too if she is not sure if they have a dog with them.

Luckily most people around here know her and just laugh and talk to her. She is quite happy to interact, no agression even to the dogs. They just run up to her while shes barking!

Tracy