My dog barks all the time. How can I stop him?

Jennifer Vanderau
| Cumberland Valley Animal Shelter

Q: Help! My dog has dandruff. What can I do?

A: Some animals, such as pit bulls, have chronically sensitive skin, and dryness and flaking seem to be problematic in this breed. Sometimes pollen and dust, as well as hot and dry conditions can also lead to skin problems. Sometimes, even thyroid problems can show up on the skin.

It’s hard to guess. As always, it’s a good idea to take your dog to the vet to rule out any serious health issues related to irritating skin conditions. Also, believe it or not, some pets have allergies to certain foods that can manifest as skin problems.

Here at the shelter, we have seen some success mixing sunflower oil into dry food to help with a puppy’s skin and coat. Additionally, be sure to feed your pet a good quality food to help with their skin issues. To determine the cause of the irritation, you can use a gentle, moisturizing, natural shampoo to soothe your dog, but please consult your veterinarian to determine the best solution for you and your pet.

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Q: I just got a dog from a friend and he barks. A lot. I’m starting to worry that my neighbors are affected. What should I do to stop him from barking? A: When you live in an area where your neighbors are close, a barking dog can be problematic. One way to combat this problem is to determine the cause of the barking. Since animals can’t talk to us, this can be tricky, but it is possible to make an educated guess.

Typical causes of barking are boredom, fear, and the need to protect their territory. Believe it or not, dogs can get bored just like humans.

Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise and has toys to play with. This will help keep your dog calm and reduce his need to bark.

A fear response in a dog can also cause unwanted barking, including separation anxiety. Fearful dogs need to be socialized so they understand that they don’t need to be afraid of visitors or other pets. Separation anxiety is difficult to manage, but try leaving a television or radio on for your dog, or providing him with a shirt that smells like you to ease his anxiety.

Dogs can also be picky about their territory and home, which can be a major cause of barking. Dogs feel the need to protect what is theirs and one way to do this is by “talking,” or in their words, barking. Again, socialization helps to address this issue.

It may be a good idea to contact a local dog trainer to assess your specific situation and decide what the best course of action is for you. Rest assured, there is a solution and with a little work and effort, your pup will have his barking reduced to a minimum.

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Ask the Shelter is a weekly column dedicated to informing pets. If you have a question, contact Jennifer Vanderau, publications and promotions consultant for the Cumberland Valley Animal Shelter, at [email protected] or 263-5791.