My mom bought Jackson, my toy poodle, for me as a gift my Junior year of college. I had NEVER been allowed to have a pet inside the house when I was young and as I got older I realized I was probably missing out. I started talking about getting a puppy, and for whatever reason my mom decided to get Jackson for me.
I may be biased, but I think Jackson is one of the cutest dogs ever (see below evidence).
While I think Jackson is great... super cute, cuddly, loving, protective, etc. I will be the first to admit that he can be a little on the obnoxious side as well. I like to describe Jackson's bark as blood curdling. It's awful- so high pitched and loud. I also think Jackson has separation anxiety. Combine the obnoxious barking with freaking out any time we leave him and, Houston, we have a problem.
I can normally deal with the barking when it's just the family around, but when you bring in visitors, his anxiety and barking only get worse. It's virtually impossible to give guests your full attention when you spend most of the time consoling the dog and trying to keep him company. We try as much as possible to separate him from the guests, but I find myself feeling sorry for him and sneaking away to hang out with him instead of the people. I know what you're probably thinking, and YES I know I sound like a crazy lady. Maybe this says something about the people I surround myself with if I'd rather hang out with my dog than them.... I'm kidding, kind of! (Love you friends and family--- don't get your feelings hurt!)
Anyway, for the past week, I've been researching and implementing some new things with Jackson to try and curb the amount of barking. I read a ton of articles and how-to's and decided to start with the easiest ideas first.
Taming Jackson
One article I read (I wish I could find it again) mentioned that you should just sternly say "NO" to the dog immediately when they start barking. As soon as the dog calms down and quietens you give positive reinforcement be it a treat or just an "atta boy" and attention.
I would have never thought something this simple would have worked with Jackson, but I found that he almost immediately understood and would follow my command to stop barking when I said, "NO".
Jackson usually barks a LOT when I come downstairs to my little "apartment" and leave him upstairs in the main part of the house. I always feel guilty and would find myself sneaking around (I'm not joking) in order to avoid disturbing/upsetting him.
I've been making a conscious effort to keep a treat with me, and any time Jackson would start barking at me on my way down, I'd tell him "NO" then follow up with a treat when he got quiet.
I am SO proud to say that for the FIRST time, just now, I came downstairs and there was not a PEEP from Jackson. I can't believe it worked so quickly and I am oh, so excited. Obviously, consistency is key and one minor battle victory doesn't mean the war is over.
I am anxious to see how this turns out..... So far, so good!
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