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Amy_S asked in PetsDogs · 1 decade ago

What would you do to help?

We have a dog (Australian Shepherd) who barks at the thunder. We would like to teach him to not bark during the storm. We have tried disciplining him with a slight tap on the head or nose when he barks, but that just makes it worse. Do you have any other ideas? Thanks

9 Answers

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  • Randy
    Lv 4
    1 decade ago
    Favorite Answer

    It's probably just something he's scrared of, but usually dogs do best with positive reinforcement rather than negative. Try doing something to distract him from barking. Something loud, such as a loud clicker or a can of pennies. When he gets distracted momentarily and is quiet, reward him with praise or a treat. He will eventually associate being quiet during a storm with something positive and will continue that positive behavior.

  • budgie
    Lv 4
    1 decade ago

    Loud noises just scare some dogs, he can hear the sonic boom a lot more than we can. The only way you can try to get him over it is to distract him with some thing else while the storm happens. Try playing his favourite game or teaching him a new trick, discipline wont help as all he can hear is the boom and is only trying to warn you of a danger he thinks is there.

  • 1 decade ago

    Storm anxiety is pretty common, you could try to kennel during the storm so he feels safe and protected, you could also look into comfort pills for your dog. You can seek advice from your vet, punishing isn't going to help an already anxious animal. You really should discuss this anxiety problem with your vet.

  • Anonymous
    1 decade ago

    Bring him inside and turn up the TV. Noise scares many dogs, a natural thing.

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  • 1 decade ago

    does he bark because hes scared. i know my little border collie mix is horrified of storms. what i do with her is sedation and it helps her get through it much easier. theres that option or you can always call a behavioralist and see if they have any suggestions.

  • 1 decade ago

    If it's something that he's afraid of it will be hard to break.... You might want to distract him with a new toy to play with or playing a game with him while it's storming..

  • Anonymous
    1 decade ago

    hes probably scared of it, and its normal, because some dogs are afraid of thunderstorms. Just try to play with him and comfort him while it storms. (this helped my dog)

  • 1 decade ago

    you should never discipline him for doing that he is scared my friend gives her dog children's benidrill

  • 1 decade ago

    no bark collar

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