Canine Library:
General Motor MouthSuch "action tools" as lawnmowers, vacuums, mops and rakes are considered fair prey by many dogs, especially terriers, and the barking bouts quickly become a bad habit. Indoors, put the dog in its crate and let the vacuum run right beside it. Stay in the room, but ignore the uproar. When the dog stops for a second, get in a "Good dog." When it is quiet for a moment longer, turn off the vacuum and let the dog out. Encourage a close inspection, If your dog barks, say "No bark" and repeat the exercise. Leave the vacuum out in different rooms until it is no longer a threat and you can move it and turn it on and off without a barking accompaniment. Go through a similar saturation process with the rake and lawn mower, using a sit-stay on lead instead of the crate. Be sure to leave the tools out where your dog can examine them while they are not in use. A quiet "Good dog" will tell the dog which behavior has your approval. Author(s): McLennan, Bardi Canine Library: General |