Sheltie barking

Question
I just rescued a 1 1/2 yr old sheltie 3 weeks ago.  He is a great dog, easy to train, but he always barks at my husband and me when we are sitting in our living room in the evening.  If only one of us is there he doesn't bark.  If he sees something outside or is outside he doesn't bark. Only when we are all in the living room together.  I have tried "No Barks" with a treat to no avail.  Please suggest something I can do.

Answer
Hi Cindy,

Though they don't need miles of running exercise, Shetland Sheepdogs are herding dogs who MUST have regular opportunities to vent their energy and do interesting things. Otherwise they will become bored, which they usually express by barking.


Have you tried increasing the amount of daily exercise your dog gets every day? If you have a fenced yard, that doesn't count towards exercise, you need to leash walk your dog, or be outside with your dog throwing balls, etc. There's a saying amongst dog trainers: "A tired dog is a quiet dog", and it's true!

Mental stimulation is also very important for the Sheltie breed. You should get your dog involved in agility (obstacle course), an obedience class, or tracking, or a similar canine activity that gives your dog a mental workout.

With some dogs, there isn't a substitute for a live-and-in-person dog behaviorist, to get them under control. It sounds like your dog is in this group (though the increased exercise might but a dent in her habit). Your vet or local boarding kennel can probably recommend a behaviorist in your area.

Best of luck,

Patti