Expert: Susan Downes - 6/22/2007

Question
QUESTION: Hi. I have a question regarding dogs barking at night.
Well, in a few more days my family and I will adopt a dog/puppy. The dog has to stay outside though and we have researched/discussed everything about dogs. One problem that we weren't able to resolve is what to do if the dog won't stop barking at night. Yelling won't solve anything it'll only show the dog that if it barks it gets more attention. Zapping collars aren't worth it, it'll make the new dog scared (but maybe I'm wrong). I've found a save way but wasn't sure umm silent whistles? If the puppy barks and cries at night we can blow it so the puppy can hear the noise and be quiet but people won't. Is this a good idea? What would you do? But this question is just incase so we can prepare for the unexpected, because it'll for our first dog! And is there anything different that we have to do if an adult dog barks/howls/cries versus a puppy doing it? We do understand that puppies will cry if they're scared or lonely and adults will bark if there is somebody down the street.

ANSWER: Hi Vanessa, Your new dog may bark at first because it wants to be with his pack (you).  Make him a comfortable, weatherproof house to sleep in and take some of your well worn clothing items (socks, panties, an old shoe...) so he can smell you near.  Do not make noise back at him because he will think you are calling in the pack. Give him chew toys and items to keep him company.  If he is a puppy a tick-tock clock under his bedding will help a bit. Be sure to give him a reassuring "kennel up" command and do not make a fuss over leaving him.  He will still be comforted by your scent and learn that you will be back in the morning.  Don't make a big fuss over the morning greeting either, a simple good boy will be fine. Thanks for writing and keep us posted. Regards, Susan

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank-you very much for the quick response! Ok so if the dog barks I do not respond whatsoever. But how will it know that barking/crying at night is bad? And what if he keeps barking for hours and doesn't stop, am I suppose to ignore it for an hour?

Answer
Vanessa, When he barks just praise him and comfort him.
Tell him "it's okay". Did you give him some of the items that I told you to give him last time?  If you did, great.  If not, just try it.  If you did and he is still carrying on take a soda can and fill it with a few stones, pennies, or pebbles, and cover the hole with duct tape.  Shake the can when he is barking.  That is a noise that dogs do not like, but he will not associate that noise with you "calling to the pack".  Hope you are following through and wishing you the best of luck.  It is one of those noises that we simply find hard to sleep through. Thanks for keeping me posted.  Regards, Susan