We have a dog (Australian Shepherd) who barks at the thunder. We would like to teach him to not bark during the storm. We have tried disciplining him with a slight tap on the head or nose when he barks, but that just makes it worse. Do you have any other ideas? Thanks
2007-07-12 06:16:52 · 9 answers · asked by Amy_S 3 in Pets ➔ Dogs
It's probably just something he's scrared of, but usually dogs do best with positive reinforcement rather than negative. Try doing something to distract him from barking. Something loud, such as a loud clicker or a can of pennies. When he gets distracted momentarily and is quiet, reward him with praise or a treat. He will eventually associate being quiet during a storm with something positive and will continue that positive behavior.
2007-07-12 06:22:37 · answer #1 · answered by Randy 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Loud noises just scare some dogs, he can hear the sonic boom a lot more than we can. The only way you can try to get him over it is to distract him with some thing else while the storm happens. Try playing his favourite game or teaching him a new trick, discipline wont help as all he can hear is the boom and is only trying to warn you of a danger he thinks is there.
2007-07-12 13:21:51 · answer #2 · answered by budgie 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Storm anxiety is pretty common, you could try to kennel during the storm so he feels safe and protected, you could also look into comfort pills for your dog. You can seek advice from your vet, punishing isn't going to help an already anxious animal. You really should discuss this anxiety problem with your vet.
2007-07-12 13:24:20 · answer #3 · answered by hailstorm 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Bring him inside and turn up the TV. Noise scares many dogs, a natural thing.
2007-07-12 13:50:17 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
does he bark because hes scared. i know my little border collie mix is horrified of storms. what i do with her is sedation and it helps her get through it much easier. theres that option or you can always call a behavioralist and see if they have any suggestions.
2007-07-12 13:28:19 · answer #5 · answered by bigmomma2323 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If it's something that he's afraid of it will be hard to break.... You might want to distract him with a new toy to play with or playing a game with him while it's storming..
2007-07-12 13:21:27 · answer #6 · answered by pebblespro 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
hes probably scared of it, and its normal, because some dogs are afraid of thunderstorms. Just try to play with him and comfort him while it storms. (this helped my dog)
2007-07-12 13:21:40 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
you should never discipline him for doing that he is scared my friend gives her dog children's benidrill
2007-07-12 13:22:14 · answer #8 · answered by gaby 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
no bark collar
2007-07-12 13:21:20 · answer #9 · answered by Kit_kat 7 · 0⤊ 3⤋