Expert: Kaza - 4/15/2008

Question
My 1 1/2 yr old Bichon will not stop barking...loud noises,
knocks on the door, people passing by the house and certain people in particular.  I have tried a bark collar but can't seem to get it to fit right.  I have also taken her to obedience classes and tried teaching her to speak, then to stop...but it continues.  Any suggestions?

Answer
It's all about socialisation and if that role was not done by the breeder then hey I am afraid its now your turn. For a start I would place Fido on his collar and leash inside the home and walk him about on his leash and start to puppy train him once again. To control any dog big or small you must learn to lead the dog. YOU are alpha not him.
Walk to the door with him to heel attached to his leash, when a knock happens gently using your foot tap his rear end and say sssshh when he barks, repeat this EVERY time, trust me it does work.
This can be done for barking at people, once he gets it right remove the leash and just keep redoing this.
You donot need an antibark collar.
Also think of using some herbal dog calming tablets that contain valerian for about 2-3 weeks, they can help to bring him own whilst YOU establish a routine in training. They are NOt a cure all but they can help you.
D.A.P is also a very good tool to use when training any noisy little man, but ultimately it is about YOU regaining control through training.

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www.eurobichons.com