barking please help

[nicolemcgray]

Hi I'm wondering if anyone has any advice to lessen my dogs barking. He is only 10 months and I'm pretty sure the barking is an attention thing. I don't mind the occasional bark if he is barking at the door but this is a constant almost howeling noise until I stop what I'm doing. I'm at the point where it is bothering my neighbours. He is a very smart dog but also very stubborn. Anyone have any ideas? Thanks

 

[bubbatd]

What's he barking at ???

 

[nicolemcgray]

I'm honestly not sure I think he is just trying to get my attention but I'm afraid if I give him attention everytime he barks it will just encourage him. He has plenty of food water and he is litter trained so it's not a let me out bark.

 

[bubbatd]

Confused .... is he barking inside ... outside or in kennel ? why is he litter trained ?

 

[nicolemcgray]

He is barking inside. He is litter trained because I am on heavily sedating medication which I can't wake up often enough to take him out. He does get out to run for a while every day though

 

[lizzybeth727]

I'd suggest calmly and without looking at your dog, getting up and leaving the room every time he barks. THis way it's very clear that you're going to ignore barking, and barking will not get him anywhere. Preferably close a door behind you, especially if he follows you out of the room. If he's quiet for about a minute (you can time it - a consecutive minute), then come back in the room and go back to what you were doing for a few minutes, THEN get up and give him a bunch of attention. Don't praise or reward the quiet until he's been quiet for a few minutes (3-5 minutes) with you in the room.

 

[lizzybeth727]

He also sounds bored.... Are you doing any training with him?

Google "101 Things to do with a Box" for a fun training game that will tire dogs out.

 

[bubbatd]

If you are that heavily sedated not to be able to take him out . I'd agree that he's bored to death and needs interaction . Knowing your situation , why did you get him ?