Constant Barking

Question
We have a 6 month old female lab that we obtained from a breeder at 6 weeks of age.  We have a very nice fenced in yard for her to play in.  The problem is that when she is left alone in the yard she will not stop barking.

Thank you.  (MABNBPDB@AOL.COM)

Answer
Hi Paul,

The most likely reason that she is barking so much is that she is - well, bored. Even though she has a beautiful yard and I have no doubt lots of toys, she might be feeling like a kid on summer vacation who, despite a big room full of expensive toys, is "bored."

I think she needs an activity, or game to keep her smart little mind busy! Do you have a Kong toy yet? A big Kong toy filled up with something delicious is a great way to get her mouth involved in something other than barking. Experiment with putting different kinds of treats inside. If she can empty it too quickly with peanut butter or cubes of cheese, try freezing baby food or dog food inside so it will take longer for her to get it out. You can also try out other interactive food-dispensing toys or a sterelized bone with filling (just be sure it's a large enough size!). Show them to her, allow her to get "hooked", and then give them to her only when she is out in the yard. Then, she'll have something special to look forward to out there that she doesn't always have access to.

Another thing that can be a big help in getting her to be quiet is to take her for a nice brisk walk or to the park to chase a ball before you have to leave her. That will tire her out a bit, and help her to feel more relaxed (and more likely to nap!) while she's alone.

If none of this helps and she seems stressed and anxous while she's barking, you might be seeing some separation anxiety. If that's the case things can get a little more challenging.

Letting your neighbors know that you're working on doing something about the barking can go a long way if you have any concern about them. Just knowing that you're on it can help ease tensions.

Please don't hesitate to write again to let me know how things are going, or if you have any questions at all. Best wishes!