About Jessica Rhae
Hi, I'm Jessica, and I'm additcted to Dachshunds. I've owned 3 of my own, shared in the lives of thousands of others through their owner's stories, and have been studying the breed for over 10 years. When I'm not sharing what I know through this blog, you can find me hiking, camping, and traveling with my dogs.
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Bonnie MacAllister says
I really love your column and thanks for the information. I’m a first time docs an owner I have a little boy 2 1/2 years old he’s totally paper train he lets me know when he hast to go to the bathroom if he’s in the car he’s wonderful except he’s a barking freak I’m in an apartment complex and people are really frustrated with the fact that he barks all the time should I get a bark collar when he goes outside and then take it off of him when he’s inside? I don’t want to hurt him but I am having a problem with my neighbors. Please let me know what to do. Thanks
Jessica Rhae says
Hi Bonnie. Dachshunds are a breed that is notorious for barking. However, I understand your frustration. I don’t mind if mine bark to alert me of something but I try to discourage them barking a lot just because they feel like it. I also understand it can be a real issue if it annoys neighbors. Bark collars are very controversial but I think they are ok as a last resort IF they are used properly. Ideally, you can find a dog trainer that would be willing to teach you how to properly use one to curb his barking. That can be a challenge though, depending on where you live. A bark collar is considered punishment-based training (vs. positive reinforcement) and most dog trainers only use positive reinforcement nowadays (which MAY work by the way – it certainly doesn’t hurt to try a consult with one to see if they can help). For me, I limit my dog’s time outdoors. They definitely bark less when I am out there to supervise them so I don’t let them out unattended for long periods. I’ve also found that yelling at them to stop doesn’t work. Distracting them by clapping and saying “that’s enough” has worked a lot better, although it is not foolproof. Lastly, you can read this article on my blog about the barking issue: https://youdidwhatwithyourweiner.com/why-wont-my-dachshund-stop-barking/ Maybe it can provide some tips. Good luck.