Quote:
Originally Posted by Maximo  Do all the things you would do before leaving for work and stand outside your home for up to 30 minutes to see if he is still barking or if he settles down. You may have to go to great lengths to make him think it is a work day and that you aren't just hanging out in the yard.
You mentioned that you have tried coming and going in a calm manner, like it is no big deal. That is good. Have you also tried the method where you leave for 5 minutes, come back, and leave again, gradually increasing the time away each time you leave?
If all else fails, you may want to turn to a professional trainer. |
My goodness, they LOVE their soccer game...
I'm not sure exactly how long he barks for, but it's at least 2 minutes. The other day I left out through the garage (the way I go every day), and just stood in the garage. I was there for 2 minutes, and he continued barking the entire time. I was baking something and the timer went off so I needed to go inside, but I should try a 30 minute deal.
I haven't tried the leave for 5 minutes and come back, but I have left, and if I go back in and he didn't bark he gets a treat...but we don't really get far with that. I will start just leaving for a few minutes and coming back.
Today I tried a little mind game, and he really seemed to enjoy it. I put a treat under a plastic cup, and he had to get the treat by himself. Yes, I stole it from tv, but it totally entertained him! Hopefully I can start playing little mind games with him - I sure liked watching him figure it out!
Thanks for all the suggestions - I'm hoping to at least make some progress soon!