Help with constant barking, please...

[Mutzie's Mom]

<font face="Comic Sans MS">Hi, everyone! I am having a problem with my youngest, Shelby. She won't stop barking at doorbells (actual ones and the ones on TV!). She also barks if she hears the wind blow. Worst of all, she barks when we have company. She hides in an area we can't reach her and barks her head off. She is barely 6 lbs. and barks so loudly! We put her and Sheppie outside during the day since we have nice weather. We're all outside! Unfortunately, she barks at the neighbors (whom she knows and loves!) and every living creature around. I know it's common for dachsies to bark and I understand that. Mutzie would bark, too. Shelby just doesn't know when to stop. I've tried squirting her in the face with water (that sounds horrible!). I don't want to do anything like a shock collar---I don't believe in it and she is very submissive. I guess I'm confused because she allows my 5 year old daughter to dress her up and push her around in the baby stroller. She is loving and loves children. She is just protective! It doesn't make sense to me.

I'm sorry for such a long post, but can someone please help me? Is there something I can do to curb this horrible behavior? I'm so embarrassed when my family comes over or we visit and Shelby won't leave them alone. She is 16 months, spayed, and a long hair mini black/tan dapple, if that helps.

Thanks so much in advance!
Sherry, Sheppie & Shelby

[Heide]

with a water bottle will most of the time stop mine. If it by chance doesnt then they are put up away from the guests as a time out. Then I will let them out of the bathroom and let them socialize. It seems to work good. OR I will just pick them up and hold them in my lap.
Yes there very protective of their family and home.
I have heard before that a can filled with pennies being shook will also help out.
Good luck
I am sure other members will have more ideas.

[Lauri Gengor]

Hi Sherry, barking is a problem with these little dogs because they are so protective. The coins in a can worked with mine since I started this when they were puppies. I also gave them their own space, thier own room where they can be separated if I have company come over. I have the company come in, introduce themselves, let my dogs smell them, then depending on the company my dogs come in with us or they stay in their room. I have had no problem with them outside except for the initial warning bark or greeting. If this problem is persistant you might consider an obedience class or behavorial trainer to retrain your pup's reaction to barking. With mine, since Im the alpha of this pack, they will obey my "quiet command" and sensing everthing is all right will cease to bark.



Lauri and the girls

[FOREVER A DAXIE]

I'm no expert since my 'lil guy is only 12 weeks. However, I've used the spray bottle with a touch of vinegar. Also, you can put a muzzle on when your daxie is doing inappropriate barking for a short time only. Good Luck.