All dogs need jobs. Your dog is trying to tell you that one of his jobs is to guard the castle gates against enemies. This includes salespeople, delivery guys and other
dogs. This is actually a good thing, as it has been encouraged in our furry companions since we first let them into our lives eons ago. The problem is, some pups don’t know when to stop. This exercise will help set limits on this behavior.You will need to have two people to make this one work. If it is a couple from the same home doing it, switch places from time to time so Rex understands the command from both of you.
The first person leaves the house and remains out of sight for about five minutes, so the pooch doesn’t suspect it’s you when the doorbell rings. The other person goes to the farthest corner of the house away from the door, like a bedroom. Have your premium treats ready!
Now the fun begins. When the five minutes is up the person outside will ring the doorbell once. The person inside will allow Rex to bark a few times and then call him back very cheerfully like this: “Rexy, come!” As soon as he appears he gets the treat and lots of praise. Now walk to the door and have your pup sit far enough away so that you can open the door without bumping him. Praise the sit, treat him and open the door. Now, switch places and repeat the exercise. Do this three times each per session to put firmly in his mind.
You can practice this a few times a week until Rex learns that his job is to bark a few times and then come find you. That gives him an outlet for the behavior and a useful job around the house!
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