AboutKim Wingate Expertise I can answer general questions about Poodles. My specific area of expertise is Standard Poodles, but I will answer all questions about Poodles and dog related questions if I can. If I can't answer your question, I will be able to find information or someone who can.
Experience I am a Dog Groomer and Dog Trainer, who has raised Standard Poodles for over 20 years. I can answer Housebreaking questions, Obedience questions, Grooming questions, Breeding questions, and General Dog questions.
Organizations I am a member of the AKC.
Education/Credentials I have worked at several Pet stores in my area, worked for a year as a Vet Tech, was an apprentice for a Dog Trainer, and have also worked at a Grooming/Showing kennel for several months. I have also raised, shown, trained, and groomed my own Standard Poodles for over 20 years.
Expert: Kim Wingate Date: 6/26/2008 Subject: Jack... update
Question Just want to keep you posted on our now 13 month old red standard poodle, Jack. He is an awesome pup! He is very territorial of our property amd home, and his people. I need to know if there is a way to "quiet" his LOUD bark. He is very sweet tempered, has never bit anyone... but "sounds" fierce when he barks. When guests come over... it takes a bit for him to settle. And he still has difficulty with men. This is the boy we bought from a kennel who won't go easily to my husband.
Funny thing is that we can take Jack to soccer games and he barks at no one.... and even lets different strangers pet him for a bit. He is SLOWLY coming around.. my daughter, grandma and I can do almost anything with Jack. Hmmmmmmm wonder why!
Answer Hello Again Patty and Jack,
We'll just have to call him Jack "The Lady's Man". Good to hear that he is slowly coming around. He will get it eventually.
When people come over, try taking Jack out into the yard to let him meet them. As when walking, offer them treats to give him and only come inside once he is being friendly outside.
He sees the house as "His property" and those people need to be reminded of it in his mind. He's uneasy until he sees that they aren't hurting his house or family.
At soccer games and other outings, he isn't at home and the territory is fair game. It isn't his so he doesn't feel that he has to protect it.
When he barks, try to get him to stop at the first bark. Distract his attention and say Shhhhh. If you let him build up his barking, he will bark himself into a frenzy. Try throwing a toy, putting him through some Obedience exercises or do something that will take him away from what he is barking at. Praise him when he is quiet.
Keep me Pup-Dated and I will be waiting for more Praise reports.
Talk to you later,
If you want, you can just e-mail me at Topkdog@webtv.net
