Night Time Trouble: A case study
Diane writes: I have been reading your newsletters and have your book. It’s all very helpful although I must admit that I haven't been the best at keeping my dog under control.
I have a 10 month old Bichon Frise, Cory and, as cute and loving as he is, he can be a real terror. In this I mean, he eats my bedding, his bedding, and any cloth item that may be lying around. Yes, I know I should never have allowed him to sleep with us, but my husband gave in and then I could never get him back in his crate. I guess I have a problem with my husband too!
So now I need to know, is this something Cory will grow out of? If not, what can I do to stop him other than getting him back in his crate? I tried to do this and he barked all night which my neighbors did not appreciate. I have also brought a bone to bed hoping he will chew on that instead. He does but then in the middle of the night he wakes and begins to dine on my
linens.
This is getting expensive. Your advice is appreciated.
Kingdom of Pets Replies:
Its possible that your puppy will grow out of his linen eating behavior. But, of course, there are no guarantees that, without your intervention, the problem will just go away. As with most behaviors, it is up to you the owner to make a change. Making changes can sometimes be really difficult at first but it is important to consider the long-term benefits for you and your pet. In your situation, getting Cory to sleep in his own space will ensure he gets plenty of rest and quiet time, while also saving you money in bedding and giving you a worry free nights sleep.
At night
Cory will bark – probably all night if he follows the plan he followed the first time round. It may well mean that you have a sleepless night or two, but think of that as an investment. It will be worth it in the long run. Once you have put Cory in his crate at night, you must totally ignore him. If you let him out after 30 minutes, all he learns is that barking for half an hour gets him out. Completely ignore him and eventually he will learn that barking is a waste of his time and energy.
I suggest you locate the crate as far from your neighbors as possible – and as far from your bedroom as possible. Make sure Cory is warm and comfortable and has plenty of fresh water in a spill-proof container. To muffle the barking, drape a blanket over the crate – if not directly onto it, certainly close enough to enclose the noise. Also, put a chew toy in his crate, so that if he is awake he will have something to keep him occupied. A sturdy chew toy, with a treat in the centre will often keep a dog busy for hours at a time. You could also consider leaving some quiet calming music on in the room where his crate is to further help settle him.
Try to make bedtime and getting up times consistent so that he gets into a routine and knows that he will only be locked in for a certain period. At bedtime take him out to the toilet and then tell him “bed time” in a calm pleasant voice and put him in his crate with a little treat. Eventually he should become comfortable with going to his bed at night and even anticipate this time excitedly because of the treat.
During the day
Make sure Cory is getting plenty of exercise. Take him out for a brisk walk just before putting him to bed. This will encourage him to sleep all night!
Cory might chew linen and other bedding because he is bored and chews to keep himself amused. During the day make sure that he has plenty of company and activity to keep him mentally and physically stimulated. Regular obedience training will occupy his active mind and make him a better companion too. Also keep using alpha training techniques.
How to handle your neighbors? Sit down with them and explain what you’re doing and why you need to do it. Reassure them that Cory’s barking will not go on forever and that you will do your best to minimize it.
How to handle your husband? Short of buying him a cuddly toy to take to bed … this one is really yours to solve. (Secrets to Husband Training, maybe?)
All the best,
Daniel Stevens and the Secrets to Dog Training Team
"Secrets to Dog Training - STOP Dog Behavior Problems!"
http://www.kingdomofpets.com/dogobediencetraining/
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