If your dog is a problem barker, the odds are pretty good that it either bothers you directly or complaining neighbours bother you indirectly.Why should a dog bark constantly? Most dogs bark either at some person, animal or object or if it has been left alone. It is quite normal for dogs to bark at people passing through its territory. This is `reasonable' barking.The owners are often at fault when it comes to make their dogs excessive barkers. At times, when the puppy first shows signs of territorial defence, the owners urged it on. When a pup first start barking, call it near and then try to investigate why its doing so. This way, your behaviour would indicate to the pup how you would like it to behave.Unfortunately, many people bark back at their problem-barker by shouting at it. This would work only when you are at home. When you are away, the dog is the boss and would continue barking. Never isolate a dog to punish it for isolation produces anxiety and leads to excessive barking.Correcting continuous barking in your absence would require time and patience. Go out of the house pretending that you are actually going for some work. Stay close by, but don't let the dog see or smell you. After a while, when the dog starts barking, open the door immediately, reprimand the dog by jerking its collar and asking it to `be quiet'. Repeat this until it stops barking unnecessarily.An important task is to get your dog used to being alone. A wooden or wire-mesh crib or playpen is very useful. It helps in preventing barking, chewing or soiling. It calms anxious dogs when the owner is away.A dog with bad barking habit should be kept in the crate for about half-an-hour along with a used garment of the owner, the smell of which will comfort it. There should be some toys around to keep it busy. Practice leaving it in the crate for about 10 minutes initially. If he is quiet, praise it.Electronic bark collars are used in Western countries, but these are not so effective. If the dog is barking excessively outside, turning the hose on him and telling him to be quiet may help. Similarly, spraying lime juice in the mouth while giving the quiet command may work.Be consistent and patient with your dog. The reward will outweigh the sacrifices you make.Dr S. P. Beri is a veterinarian who practices at D-86, Anand Niketan. Call him at 4670415.
