May 17, 2011
My dog whines and whimpers when she sees another dog. I tried using the DD collar and she became quiet. Will this damage her confidence in the long run?
Full Question:
Hi Cindy,I just read the weekly newsletter published today and related to the Q/A on the guy who's dog whines and whimpers when she sees another dog and I do not allow her to go since I do not allow her to meet and greet other dogs. My dog (14 months old now) does the same thing, but she is very loud and it sounds like someone is trying to kill her. Her lunging at another dog (all of this occurs on sidewalks) has diminished where I implemented your earlier recommendations to me; however, this vocalization is quite frustrating. I tried to administer a physical correction (hard and soft via prong and e-collars), but that just makes her even louder and more anxious. Just yesterday, I decided to try using the DD collar I have on her as a back-up. She indeed became quiet (probably because she was unable to breath). My question: is using a DD collar for this a good idea or will it damage her confidence, drives, etc., in the long run?
Thanks again,
Jeffrey
Cindy's Answer:
Every dog is different so it’s hard to say what the long term repercussions would be from using the DD collar. It may be just fine. I’d prefer to use markers to reinforce good behavior over corrections for this. If it doesn’t work, you can always go to a physical correction later.
I’ve found that dogs usually vocalize because they are anxious, and using physical means to stop it usually adds more anxiety.
I’d worry about damaging the relationship, more than damaging her drives. Like I said before, if you’ve tried other things and given them a real chance (not just once or twice) and they don’t work at all then try something else. This is one of those cases where you have to use your knowledge of your dog and your instincts to know what’s best for the situation. I always start with the least “offensive” way (for lack of a better word) and go from there.
Cindy
I’ve found that dogs usually vocalize because they are anxious, and using physical means to stop it usually adds more anxiety.
I’d worry about damaging the relationship, more than damaging her drives. Like I said before, if you’ve tried other things and given them a real chance (not just once or twice) and they don’t work at all then try something else. This is one of those cases where you have to use your knowledge of your dog and your instincts to know what’s best for the situation. I always start with the least “offensive” way (for lack of a better word) and go from there.
Cindy
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