Wanted: Citronella Anti-Bark Training Collar

[TaegansMom]

Hi Everyone -
Wondering if anyone has a citronella anti-bark collar they no longer need? My GSD is now 9 months and has developed a terrible barking at almost anything habit. I've tried every other method to discourage it... but to no avail. Thanks in advance and Happy Holidays!

[Toffifay]

I have one, but it was used for a smaller dog so I'm not sure the collar would fit a GSD.

I'll check the length for you...

[DianaM]

Just curious, but how much exercise is Taegan getting? GSDs aren't truly a quiet breed but I find that most GSDs bark from boredom. How much physical exercise does Taeg get every day but more importantly, how much MENTAL exercise? A dog that's tired out from the day's activities and training will not be looking for things to bark. Also, is he kept inside and only outside with supervision? A lot of dogs bark outside because they're alone and bored regardless of available toys and space.

It's always better to resolve the root problem rather than band-aid the symptom.

[TaegansMom]

Hi Diana,
Sorry for the delayed reply. I realize GSD's aren't truly a quiet breed... I've had 3 before but never have had such a vocal dog. Taegan actually goes to a doggie daycare 2 sometimes 3 times a week. Even coming home exhausted... he barks at every little single thing... a car door down the street, someone scraping ice off of their car or shoveling, a lawnmower...You name it. On days he's not at daycare, I was working from home (although I'm recently unemployed). Even unemployed, I'm still sending him to daycare. He still he gets 2 long walks per day, plus two good 1/2 hr sessions hard playtime in the yard (ball chasing), AND training/play. I do not leave him unsupervised - neither inside nor out, as I don't think it is safe. But even still... I would expect him to bark if he saw someone outside on the sidewalk or at another dog. He simply seems hypersensitive to noise (I live in the City) and his barking has become excessive - especially inside the house.

Other than moving to a quieter area (which I cannot do), I've tried everything else possible to no avail to address the problem.

[dogmama]

Is Taegan neutered? If not, I'm wondering if hormones are acting up in him. My Zack was mean-gene-the-barking-machine at that age. He's still vocal, but at least I can get him to be quiet on command.

One thing to NOT do is yell & get excited. Taegan may think that you're joining in - that falling leaf really is a terrorist! I taught Zack, "Quiet" and the minute (even half second at first) he is quiet I say, "GOOD QUIET!" and he gets a treat. Now, I say "Quiet" and have him come lay down. Usually, within a few moments he's asleep.