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Canine Behavior/Waking up too early

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Expert: - 4/25/2008


Question
My 1 year old chihuahua/pekingese mix has been waking up really early lately.  He usually sleeps until 6 or 7 am, and now he's started waking up at 3 or 4 am.  He sleeps in a crate, but he barks until I let him out.  I know I'm just making him bark whenever he wants to get out, but I can't go back to sleep while he's barking.  I try letting him outside to go to the bathroom, but he never has to go.  How can I get him to go back to sleep?

Answer
Every time he barks to get out of the crate and you let him out, you are teaching him that if he gets obnoxious enough he gets out.  Instead, try buying ear plugs (and maybe ask your neighbors' forebearance while you train him), but IGNORE any noise coming from the crate.  No eye contact, no "shut up", no nothing.  Expect him to get louder (after all, he always got his way before).  But, persist and you may finally get him through that "extinction burst" and get a good night's sleep;-)

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Volunteer

Anne Springer, B.S., Dip., CAPCT

Expertise

I am happy to answer questions about: dog behavior and training, therapy dogs, training disabled dogs, training recently rescued dogs, and managing off leash play groups.

Experience

Professionally involved in teaching private and group lessons, and doing behavior consultations. American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, Therapy Dogs, Inc. Tester/Observer. Special interest in pet/elder issues, and in therapy dogs.

Organizations
Truly Dog Friendly Association of Pet Dog Trainers International Positive Dog Training Association Therapy Dogs, Inc.

Publications
Gloucester Times Cape Ann Beacon Ipswich Chronicle Beverly Citizen Salem News Examiner.com

Education/Credentials
Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, Cum Laude. Diploma in Dog Obedience Instruction, Graduate of NY School of Dog Grooming, Certified Advanced Pet Care Technician - American Boarding Kennels Assn., Certified Pet First Aid & CPR, American Red Cross

Awards and Honors
2002 Caregiver Award from the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare, for Pawsitive Connections Program (pet/elder issues)

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