How to Train a Dog to Quit Whining
- 1). Consider the circumstances. Does the dog whine when it goes in its crate? Before you take it outside? When you leave for work? When the mailman arrives each day? When it sees a squirrel run up a tree? When a ball rolls under the couch? Oftentimes, dogs whine to achieve a goal. The whimpering scenario (and your response) will often communicate the source of the problem.
- 2). Allow plenty of exercise. Dogs need to smell new things and experience mentally stimulating activity to be healthy. A happy and healthy dog will generally exhibit fewer problematic behaviors. Join your dog on a twice-daily rigorous walk for at least 30 minutes. You may find that your dog becomes more calm and quiet over time.
- 3). Practice leadership exercises. Establishing that you are a calm, stable pack leader may help promote a calm and quiet pooch. According to a recent "Atlanta Journal-Constitution" article, leadership exercises may include requiring your dog to sit and wait for your command before eating and walking through doorways before your pooch. Additionally, command your dog to "heel" while walking on a leash, and ensure that you (not the dog) set the pace.
- 4). Teach your dog the "quiet" command. The moment your dog begins whining, command it to "quiet" in a firm, calm voice and remove it from the pack, ignoring it after the command has been given. Should your dog stop whining, allow it back into the common area. Closing it out of the room for a brief period of time will communicate to your dog that quiet behavior is acceptable and will allow it to stay with the pack.
- 5). Respond to a dog's whining appropriately. Reward positive, calm and quiet behavior through "clicker" training--a device that creates a low-decibel, recognizable sound--and reward your dog with a treat (see Resources below). Additionally, react as a caring pack leader. Do not entertain your dog's every whimper (as this will facilitate ongoing needy behavior), but do not completely refrain from providing your dog attention (at the appropriate times). Examine your behavior as an owner to ensure that you are facilitating a healthy bond with your pet.
- 6). Visit the veterinarian. A dog that whines frequently may be trying to communicate pain to its pack leader. Go to the vet for regular canine check-ups. If a dog is currently recovering from trauma or surgery, whining is often a natural and automatic reaction.
- 7). Contact a dog training professional. Should your dog continue to whine on a regular basis, consider contacting a reputable trainer. As constant whining may signify a more serious issue (such as separation anxiety disorder), a professional trainer can help target and redirect specific behaviors. Additionally, trainers can provide dog owners with valuable dog-ownership information. Oftentimes, a dog owner may not realize that her behavior is part of the problem.
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