NEWCASTLE KZN: Are you having problems with your barking dog?

According to Heather Gero of the Newcastle SPCA has provided invaluable advice to dog owners who struggle to control their barking dogs.

1. Regular leash walks – This will provide your dog with mental and physical stimulation so the animal is calmer in general and less likely to seek objectionable objectives. “Walking also allows the pet a chance for social interaction, which is important for the animal’s well-being,” advised Gero.
2. Rain on his/her parade – To remind your dog that their noise is not appreciated, give them a short blast of water with a squirt bottle. “it’s best to aim for the body and not the face. When the dog stops the noise, praise him/her immediately.”
3. Use a chew toy – “Your animal will have a hard time making noise if his mouth is busy chewing,” chuckled Gero. Chewing, she added, is a natural stress relief for animals and a good occupier of time. “If you’re going to be away, give your animal a favourite chew toy just before you leave. Certain toys allow for the addition of food, possibly making them more desirable to your dog.
4. A can with pebbles – Shaking a cooldrink can with pebbles has an effect on both dogs and cats that is the pet equivalent of running your fingernails down a blackboard. “Put some pebbles or small coins in an empty can and tape the opening shut. If the noisy animal doesn’t respond to the command to be quiet, shake the can a couple of times,” said Gero. Your pet won’t like the sound and might stop what they are doing. When they stop making noise, praise your pet immediately.
5. Bring the pet indoors – If your animal sleeps outside and simply won’t stay quiet throughout the night, it might be best to bring the pet indoors.
6. Blocking the stimulus with white noise – “If your animal is super sensitive to noise, try blocking some of that noise so the dog is not so inspired to bark,” suggested Gero.
7. Know when to change strategies – Sometimes, people do not know when to quit using a particular approach and might keep doing the same thing for months, even though it is not working. “If there is not improvement within three to five days, try a different technique,” concluded Gero.

Trying to get your pet out of bad habits takes time and willingness from the owner to persevere.

Contact the Newcastle SPCA for assistance or more information on 034 318 2346 or visit them on Samson Drive in Barry Hertzog Park.

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WhatsApp: 082 874 5550

Email: Reveshni Douglas (Editor) at reveshni@caxton.co.za

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