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Originally Posted by FirstYorkie I like your steps. The only thing that I would suggest adding (& maybe you already are) is to really positively reinforce any quiet behavior, especially when it's on command. Even if it's only a couple of seconds: "GOOD, Charlie! GOOD quiet!". Still quiet? "GOOD boy! Here's your treat!". Make your level of praise match the tremendous effort it takes for him to be quiet.
I also think there is alot of wisdom in your comment about quieting him before he gets too wound up. I think barking is a self-reinforcing behavior in many (possibly most) dogs. I would work really hard right now to interrupt any barking. |
100% Agreement! Actually as I am sitting at the computer he is tucked in at my feet resting. This makes it really easy to reinforce this good behaviour with treats and gentle pats. He responds very nicely to positive reinforcement and learns quickly - which is why I was completely at a loss for his lack of response once he got going! My daughter worked with him for less than a day on his new name and because everytime she said his name and he looked at her - he got a treat -he knew his name!
Thanks for all the help!