Barking And Anti-bark Collars

[Michelleva]

I tried to PM you Erny, but it wouldn't send. So this is what I wanted to tell you.

I just wanted to say hi and huge thank you for taking the time to talk to me about my barking sheltie. The advice you gave me regarding adding the word enough has worked like a charm. She now knows that the word enough means.. well enough carry on and MOST times she will stop dead in her tracks.

Just a few minutes ago I heard her whining at the back door. At first I thought she needed to go to the toilet but when I investigated I realised the neighbour was outside. Normally that would be enough to set her off, but this time her reaction was very subdued and when I said enough, she simply walked away. I'm still giving her treats, but less often.

I think I'd like to start clicker training her, but I don't really know the first thing about it. Do you know of any good websites, or books that could help me learn more about it?

Thanks again, I'm seeing a really big difference in Georgia in such a short time and I'm absolutely thrilled.

As you said, consistency is the key and that is proving to be 100% correct.

[Erny]

I am glad your training is working and that you are achieving the results you are. A testament to your good application, Michelleva :).

When you've said the word "enough" and she's stopped, call her over to you and then treat her. Personally, I'd keep up the treat rewards for longer yet. I like a good strong long history of reward before weaning down too much. But by calling her to you and rewarding, you're supporting the 'call-back' and/or the dog coming to find you. I've found this somewhat handy .... my dog came to get me when I was in the back-yard mowing the lawn. Sound of the mower and the fact that I had ear-muffs on, I really didn't hear or take notice of my dog when he must have barked to announce a visitor. That my boy came to me (and he was bouncing to return back out towards the front yard) alerted me to someone potentially being there, and he was right :D.

Karen Pryor - "Click to Calm" is one book of a good number. I admit that I tend to use a verbal marker word, but do agree that there are circumstances where clicker training a dog can achieve very good results especially where the dog's behaviour relates to emotional responses.

Keep up the good work, Michelleva

[Michelleva]

Thanks for the words of encouragement Erny.. I plan to keep up with it... how could you stop when you can see what can be achieved in a few short weeks.