Addressing Problematic Behaviors Barking

Meet Kiley! Picture a classic black lab and cross it with a Dachshund. Then add playfulness and an insistence on being the center of attention an you have Kiley! Kiley is also very sharp and has a lot of energy. Kileys owner is a student and the Resident Assistant of her dorm. Her owner regularly visits with other students in her dorm room throughout the school year. Kileys attention-seeking behavior can get pretty intense. She has been barking excessively at the door and even biting/mouthing visitors! Over time this behavior will get worse. Not only disruptive to other students but it is very uncomfortable for visitors who arent familiar with dogs. Kileys owner decided to take control of the situation before the new school year and called Zen Dog Training. Having the right tools for the job is key. One suggestion for Kileys owner was to install a tether in her room. A tether is a leash or cable that is attached to a safe and secure place, away from the door while you let visitors enter your home. This is a good way to ensure that your company doesnt get bombarded by an excited dog. This also helps break your dogs habit of charging the door! Its OK to let them see the front door, but by making sure Kiley has calmed down (the barking has lulled for at least 2-3 seconds) she can teach her the right was to greet company. To learn more about how to manage a barking dog when you have guests, check out Barking at the Door at Zen Dog Training Online.