Buddy watches too much TV

Question
My 3 year old male chihuahua actually watches tv. I have read that dogs only react to motion on tv. Well let me tell you Buddy can even disinguish a cartoon dog! He will watch tv just waiting to see another dog there, and when he sees or hears one, he barks at it like crazy. How do I break him of his bad tv habits especially the barking?

Answer
Hi Carol,

One of my dogs seems to watch TV too.

A cartoon dog's "bark" probably is made by a person imitating a dog, so it's doesn't make your dog react in the same way that he does when he hears a real dog's bark. Watching TV isn't a bad thing for dogs, it sounds like you only need to stop his barking.

First, teach your dog that barking is okay until he is told to "Be quiet!" Each time your dog barks, command him to "Be quiet." Simultaneously, hold a treat in front of your dog's nose. A "high value" treat such as a tiny bit of hot dog or a tiny bit of cheese will capture your dog's attention the fastest, and help him to learn the lessons. Most dogs get quiet immediately because they can't sniff and lick the treat while barking at the same time.
Praise your dog continuously during her quiet time with petting and words of encouragement. After three seconds of no barking, let him have the treat. As you continue with your training, increase the amount of time you require him to be quiet before giving the treat.

When your dog makes a mistake and barks (and he will) reprimand him immediately. Never strike your dog, but do something that will catch her attention, such as clapping loudly or squirting water in her face. As soon as your dog stops barking, you must instantly reward him.

It also can be helpful to make something mysterious and unsettling happen when she barks. Something so puzzling that she forgets barking for a moment. A short sharp unidentifiable sound is perfect. Take a few pennies and put it an empty soda can. As you give the "Be Quiet!" command, shake the pennies can vigorously. The very moment your dog stops barking, stop shaking the can and praise him.

Don't expect overnight miracles if your dog's been barking for months. It may take weeks to replace an old habit with a new one. If you keep up with the training, you will see a new pattern develop. Instead of barking relentlessly at the insignificant, your dog will bark appropriately and for a reasonable length of time.

I hope that helps!
Best of luck,