I am in serious need of advice here...

[I Love Bailey]

I don't have problems with treats but Bailey loves her mini soccer balls to the exclusion of anything else. AND we play with her alot. But when she starts getting demanding and barking and jumping, we take her ball away and tell her No!
She cannot have her own way all the time and use bad manners. She knows when she's pushed a bit too hard, it is a bit sad...she gives us an I'm sorry look and lays on her bed.

[pepe mint]

Originally Posted by Nancy1999

Good reply, I think I understand more of what you are saying, and Jim needs to learn more about rewards. You should never give the dog a treat to stop barking. You are rewarding the barking behavior.

Have you ever tried the can of pennies to stop this? Saying "No" followed by a shake of the can? This also helps train the dog to listen more carefully to the word, "No". It has to be done in the right order to be most effective.

I really don't think it's that bad for Jim to give him a treat when Rex comes in the house, and maybe you could compromise on the type of treat given since Rex is overweight, but the barking issue definitely needs to be addressed. Sorry I added to your frustration.

Nancy,
no, don't worry about it. I understand that there is no possible way for you or anyone else to know exactly what happens day to day here and therefore there is no "right" or "wrong" response. I do greatly appreciate your help and I am confident we will come to a peaceful resolution.