Asimov is a playful but laid-back cat who enjoys the simple things in life: a warm lap, some good petting, and a couple ear scratches. Ten years old with a short orange tabby and white coat, she fancies being the only kitty at home. Adoption fees on all senior animals (age 7+) are waived until the end of February! Ask for Asimov, ID# A356933.
Adoptable pets are available at Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA’s Tom and Annette Lantos Center for Compassion, 1450 Rollins Road, Burlingame. For information, call 650-340-7022 or visit www.phs-spca.org. (Michele Moyer / Peninsula Humane Society)
Dear Miss Behavin’: My dog Lucy barks at other dogs she sees in our neighborhood, and it’s starting to make our walks unpleasant. How can I get her to be more relaxed and quiet when she sees other dogs?
Reply: This is one of the most common questions that dog trainers receive, especially in suburban or urban areas where dogs may encounter many other dogs on walks. It can be tough to know the exact reasons for this behavior, but sometimes you can figure it out based on how your dog is off leash.
If your dog greets and plays fine with other dogs when she’s off leash, chances are her barking on leash is due to excitement or frustration. She’s so eager to meet the other dog, she can’t help but bark. If your dog is nervous or fearful of other dogs, her barking might be out of fear. She’s telling the other dogs to “go away,” because she’s scared.
If you have no experience with your dog physically meeting other dogs, you might want to hire a private trainer to give you a professional assessment (call 650-340-7022, ext. 667, for more information).
Some owners think that by taking their dog to the dog park or doggy daycare it will make them bark less on leash, but don’t make this assumption. For some dogs, the increased exposure can actually worsen the problem. For example, a dog that is nervous around other dogs might be overwhelmed and become more anxious. It would be like forcing a person with social anxiety to attend a frat party.
Typically, the best way to address the barking on leash is distract your dog in the presence of another dog, usually with a very tasty treat or favorite toy. By doing this repeatedly, you can train your dog to automatically look at you for this coveted item, instead of resorting to barking. It’s easier said than done, though, so don’t be shy about enlisting the help of a professional.
Read more from Miss Behavin’ in the Mercury News.