I listened to all of your podcasts today! I really enjoyed them. I will listen again to the ones relevant to me (just about all of them), take notes, and start using your suggestions. We live in Istanbul, Turkey. Two months ago we adopted a dog who had been found starving on the streets. She is about 2. Among some of the common problems we're having (housetraining, digging, chewing), she barks when the street dogs outside start barking. She seems very anxious when they start barking and soon she chimes in until the ruckus ends. I try to speak calmly to her to calm her down, but she'll get up and run around the house. Any ideas on how to help her?

Thank you for your question! Barking is the symptom of an underlying problem.

You are on the right track by noticing that she becomes anxious and then excited. It is a human reaction to speak softly and pet the dog to try to comfort her. Unfortunately your dog feels pack support and praise instead of comfort.

Teach the 'leave it' command from the destructive behavior podcast. Consider allowing her to drag a short flat leash around in the house. (of course you will keep her in your line of visual sight) Once a day when she is not already excited sit on the couch or chair and place your foot on the leash in such a way that she doesn't jump on you or walk away. Tell her 'settle down' one time. Try not to give her any attention or repeat your request. Sit like this for 30 minutes every day.

You have now taught the commands that you need - 'leave it' and 'settle down'. When you first hear the dogs outside bark, go to her and step on the leash. Calmly pick up the leash and say 'leave it'. Take her to the couch, as you sit down place your foot on the leash and say 'settle down'. Praise her calmly as she settles. Now you are rewarding the behavior that you want!

Keep me informed of our progress! Margaret Davis