Hysterical barking

[nanny2dogs]

[I have a 5yr old Lhasa apso bitch who is lovely in the house, doesnt bark on walks, but as soon as the back door opens,runs down to the bottom of the garden, and lets rip.
I also have her son, who doesnt have this problem.
she is quite highly strung.
Its almost an hysterical yap yap high pitched, constant bark.
Has anybody else had this problem, and how is it managed?
Help! I'm embarrassed to face my neighbours.

[nick_j007]

I have just answered a question like this for Dogs Monthly:

Here is the answer...or at least my thoughts on the matter:

I suspect you have been simply opening the door since puppy hood and letting him out to chase of birds and so on, and he has made his own habit and ritual?

This process needs to be slowed down and dealt with in calm steps to achieve a quiet and controlled exit.

For a period of time you will need to place a lead on your dog and ask for the sit and wait as you open the door. Any rushing out as you open the door will result in a drawing him back with the lead and closing the door ready to try again. An investment of time initially, but once the idea develops you should be good to move forward. Then you can walk to a set toileting area and wait for him to do his business. Once he has finished you can walk him back in to the house, again in a calm manner at the doorway. Reward calm quiet behaviour with a pleasant voice and maybe some food if he is motivated by treats.

I would avoid leaving him in the garden alone, as this can be the basis for a number of behavioural problems in the garden such as digging, barking and behaviour such as you describe. Stick with this simple routine until he has the idea and you are satisfied you have the control you desire. He is still young, so I am optimistic for you.

Nick

Also, get your dog on this for a couple of months. Starting at the higher dosage for 2 weeks. It's a natural calming remedy, and is likely to help your dog. Scullcap & Valerian tablets - Dorwest