Puppy Barking

[Stewie_the_Frenchie]

Hi again everyone,

Turtle (14 weeks old) is really starting to get to me with his barking. First it was the barking for attention and we ignored it and it is slowly working (i think!). But now whenever he gets told off (with a NO!), he barks really defiantly at me...it drives me insane, because then I have to ignore him coz he's barking! AAAARRGGHHH!!!

He's like one of the smart ass kids I teach at school, but it's worse! Ha!

Has anyone got any insight into this? Why? What to do? It feels like a catch 22

Thanks

[Erny]

Based on what you've written it sounds as though your pup (age?) is exhibiting defiance to your leadership. I would re-check your leadership and 'tweak' it where possible.

In addition, if your pup is barking in defiance but then you ignore, you are quite possibly reinforcing your dog's defiance.

You need to be able to identify when the barking is attention seeking (in which case you ignore as you have been) and when it is defiance, in which case you want to avoid your pup learning that his barking at you controls your actions (ie stops you from setting his boundaries/limitations).

If you're not sure of exactly what to do and when, I'd suggest you have a trainer/behaviourist observe the behaviour as well as assess your relationship. You want to avoid any confrontation that might lead to your pup escalating to more serious behaviour.

[Stewie_the_Frenchie]

thanks erny, i live in the remote kimberley so a trainer or behaviourist is not really an option...thank you anyway, you have shed some light on why might be doing it

[Erny]

You're welcome Newnewf. If you haven't already, read up on leadership - "The Other End of the Leash" by Patricia McConnell is one of a number of good books. Also "How Dogs Learn" by Burch and Bailey is another. Reading doesn't substitute good behaviourist attentions, but it can certainly help begin the cycle of education and understanding about dogs.

Certainly if the behaviour doesn't diminish or worse, escalates, then don't hesitate to make arrangements to go see a behaviourist. It might mean a decent drive and a day or two away, but well worth it and far easier than to wait until serious behaviour becomes your dog's answer.