sleepless labradors

Question
We have a 3 year old lab who is a lovely dog but we are considering having to part with. He sleeps downstairs but comes up to our room about 4.30am each morning. We cant lock him in downstairs as we live in a small house and it wouldnt be fair on the neighbours to have him barking so early.We have got used to taking it in turns walking him early but he has now started coming up at 1.00am or 2.00am and although he doesnt try to go out at that time, our sleep is getting more and more disturbed.
As a last resort we have thought of trying to sedate him as I dont feel we can go on much longer as we all work.
Can you suggest anything please?
Many Thanks
Kim Davey

Answer
Hi Kim!

I don't blame you one bit, I wouldn't like that either and you shouldn't have to live like that.  You need to take control and be the boss, not the other way around. If it were me, I would buy a large crate for him and put it in or near my bedroom.  This way, when he begins to whine or bark to go outside, you tell him "NO" in a very stern voice. Labs are very smart dogs and he should soon realize that you are NOT going to give in, and of course you DO NOT give in. You take him out at a reasonable hour, and once he gets used to this, he will wait.  Be sure to walk him right before bedtime and no excess drinking of water at that time either.  A little after a walk is ok.

Having his crate in your bedroom will not only help you control his barking so as not to disturb the neighbors, but you can reinforce your training of what "NO" means.  I am not a dog trainer, so you may need to get some advice on getting him to listen to "NO" when you say it, as I don't think a dog should be hit on when they disobey, not that I think you would do that.  If you have ever seen the Dog Whisperer on the National Geographic channel, he uses a distinct sound to get dogs to obey him. I have used it with my own dogs and it works!  You may want to check him out, his name is Cesar Millan and he has also written a book that you can get at Amazon.com.

Good luck to you!  I hope you choose to keep your dog. With some training, he will make a great pet.

Becky