her, give the can a good shake or two while saying
“hush”. The noise should distract your barker long
enough to shut her up, at which time you can finally
say, “good dog,” and give her a treat. Always pair the
can shaking with a “hush” signal so that eventually the
dog understands the “hush” signal even when you’ve
stopped using the soda can. (Let’s face it, you probably
don’t want to carry a soda can for the rest of your
life).
If the soda can trick fails, the more intrusive
alternative is a spray bottle of water. Squirting the
barking dog (while saying “hush”) may also provide a
momentary break in the barking, while your dog tries to
figure out what just happened. Again, your cue to say,
“good dog” and break out the treat. You will hear some
people suggesting that you squirt the dog in the face.
It’s damned unpleasant to be squirted in the face, and
it’s hard to squirt someone in the face without hitting
the eyes. Dogs who have been disciplined or punished by
nose-smacking or other facial interference are more
likely to feel threatened when approached face-to-face
at other times, and are also more likely to bite. It’s
much preferable to squirt your dog’s shoulder or
backside. Keep in mind that your dog should never be
frightened or hurt by training – fear almost always
guarantees a failure to learn.
Article
Summary
Use a soda can or squirt bottle to interrupt your dog
when he’s barking.
Keep giving the “hush” command while using other
interventions, so your dog eventually learns what “hush”means.
Never squirt in the face.
Never scare or hurt your dog!
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