Posted by shar on February 28, 2003, at 0:51:33
In reply to Re: I love dogs but why do they bark so much??? » syringachalet, posted by jane d on February 28, 2003, at 0:05:37
The problem, as others said, is the owners. You said the dogs throw their bowls in their runs which makes me think, well, they aren't getting enough activity so they are playing however they can, and they need attention and communication (thus the barking), and a run is not nearly sufficient space for a dog (unless it is a large run and a tiny dog).
Not to anthropomorphize dogs to an unreasonable degree, it is important for owners to realize they are pack animals by nature. That means they are NOT good loners, even if they are put out in pairs. The way they feel good is in their pack (led, unfortunately, by their humans who evidently don't get this).
I have three dogs, and they have a doggie door. The next alpha, under me, goes out almost every night, and stands on the deck and barks. About 5-6 barks, about 5 times. Then, after a few minutes, she comes back in. This is guard duty.
On rare occasions, the whole crew (two big ones and one little one who does this scream-barking thing that makes it sound like he's being tortured) will go out for a brief bark fest. It lasts maybe at minute at the most. I think they are making their presence known, and maybe barking at some other animal (but they don't rush out like they're barking at an animal).
Anyhow, it is my responsibility to herd them in, if they are feeling particularly communicative sometimes. I have the bigger brain, it's my job to take care of them, and to make sure that they fit into their environment.
I am amazed at the people who get any kind of companion animal and are not even aware of its most basic nature and/or needs.
Ear plugs and white noise can be a good solution, and I would follow up on the ASPCA suggestion also, then police.
The only real possible harm, imo, is that the dogs get damaged (hurt, beaten) in an effort to shut them up, which won't work, and still ignores the root of the problem.
More than anyone wanted to know, I'm sure.
Shar
poster:shar
thread:204353
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20030223/msgs/204565.html