Category: Barking

  • Fear Aggression in Dogs 101

    Fear Aggression in Dogs 101

    In the intricate tapestry of canine behavior, fear aggression in dogs emerges as a complex and often misunderstood facet. Dogs, inherently social beings, can exhibit aggression rooted in fear when confronted with perceived threats or anxiety-inducing situations. You may have experienced this with a puppy suddenly acting fearful or defensive!

    This form of aggression is a poignant expression of a dog’s attempt to cope with overwhelming fear, manifesting in defensive behaviors that range from growling and barking to more overt displays of aggression. Contrary to popular belief, this is not a result of ‘stubbornness’ or ‘dominance’.

    Fear aggression can be directed at people, other dogs, or animals. It can also be generalized, which means the dog is afraid of anything and everything.

    This post aims to:

    • Understand why fearful dogs can act aggressive
    • Address puppy fear stages (and how they can impact future aggressive traits)
    • How to properly train, manage, and socialize dogs to avoid fear aggression
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    What Causes Fear Aggression in Dogs?

    The most common cause of this behavior is a lack of socialization during the critical period (between 3 and 12 weeks old).

    This is when puppies should be exposed positively to as many different people, animals, and situations as possible so they learn to cope with new things and don’t become fearful. However, many pet owners make the mistake of flooding puppies with these experiences and disregarding their emotional state while it’s happening.

    For example, a timid puppy brought to a dog park and hides under a bench the whole time quickly learns that other dogs are scary! This is not a good experience and can result in defensiveness as the puppy grows.

    Other causes of fear aggression include prior traumatic experiences, such as being attacked by another animal or being abused. Fear aggression can also be caused by health problems, such as brain damage or an injury that makes the dog sensitive to pain.

    Fear aggression is a serious problem because it can lead to bites and other injuries. It can also make it difficult for the dog to be around people or other animals. This can make their life (and yours) very stressful!

    Not all is lost, however! Many of us have had or worked with timid, fearful dogs and there are things you can do to help.

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    Fear Aggression is a Compounding Problem

    In most cases, dogs that show aggression are doing so after a history of displaying more subtle signs of discomfort. By the time it gets to the point when we humans take notice, it’s gone too far.

    Dogs give such subtle signals of distress that they can be easy to miss, or mistake for other emotions! Here are some examples of clues dogs give us that they are uncomfortable (and may escalate to aggression):

    • Ears are pinned back
    • Tense body
    • Hunched posture
    • Avoidance and hiding
    • Lifting lips/showing teeth
    • Tail tucked
    • Shaking
    • Skittishness
    • Growling and grumbling
    • Nipping or snapping

    If a dog has a high-value food item and you try to take it away, they may initially react by cowering or lifting their lips. But if you ignore these signals and begin to take those items away (and punish the dog for showing teeth), the behavior often escalates to bites and severe aggression.

    Dog aggression does not happen overnight. Many dogs will demonstrate one small behavior at the first sign of discomfort.

    It is for this reason that many pet owners will say their dog “bit somebody out of the blue” or “snarled and lunged, but that’s not like him!” With certainty, we know those dogs had body language leading up to becoming aggressive. Their communications had been ignored.

    What is the Difference Between Aggression and Fear Aggression?

    Aggression and dangerous behaviors caused by fear are closely related. It can be hard to draw a line between the two! However, there are some forms of aggression caused by health problems, genetics, hormones, and overall temperament that have nothing to do with fear.

    It is important to work with a highly qualified dog trainer if your dog is exhibiting dangerous reactivity and behaviors.

    Fear Aggression in Dogs

    How Aggression Builds in Dogs

    When dogs feel threatened, they react. For example, most humans are very frustrated by other people who cut in line or steal their food out of the employee break room.

    Depending on the day, and the history of these occurrences in the past, humans may react to these situations with empathy and understanding, or anger and aggression. Dogs are not much different!

    The BSAVA created a great demonstration of the ‘dog aggression ladder’, as shown below.

    This ladder demonstrates that dogs do not just wake up one day and decide to bite. Instead, they travel through a known escalation of signs and signals before eventually snapping.

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    Fear Aggression in Dogs

    Common Triggers of Aggression in Dogs

    Dogs experience fear and aggression for all sorts of different reasons. There are certain situations or “triggers” commonly seen for dogs. Take a look at this list and evaluate your pet. How many of these triggers are present in their life?

    1. Interactions with people of all kinds
    2. Interactions with unfamiliar dogs or dogs in general
    3. A stressful or chaotic environment (such as the Farmer’s Market or an elementary school at recess)
    4. The Veterinarian
    5. Small children, especially those that run, squeal, or interact unsafely with dogs

    How many of those triggers could be reduced, or better managed?

    You may not fully understand what your dog is afraid of or why, but if they are fearful, it’s up to you to protect them and prevent their behavior from escalating.

    Some great examples of ways to prevent fearful behavior and aggression in dogs include:

    • Walking in quiet areas or during the day when less people and dogs are around
    • Observing scary or chaotic environments from a distance
    • Teaching children how to properly interact with dogs
    • Working with a certified Fear Free Veterinarian
    Fear Aggression in Dogs

    Is All Aggression in Dogs Caused by Fear?

    There are many reasons for scary and aggressive behavior in dogs and no, they aren’t all related to fear.

    Some other reasons that dogs can show aggressive behavior include:

    1. Anxiety (ANXIOUS DOG)
    2. Excitement
    3. Chronic pain or new pain (TREATING PAIN)
    4. Possessiveness (Resource Guarding)
    5. Dominance
    6. Protective Instincts
    7. Socialization Issues (SOCIALIZATION GUIDE)
    8. Heredity & Genetics
    9. Mental Health Problems

    In addition to speaking with your veterinarian to resolve health problems, we recommend feeding a correct diet, reducing stress and anxiety with mental enrichment, and working with a good dog trainer to address and treat behavior problems.

    Fear Aggression in Dogs

    How to Socialize an Aggressive Dog

    A lack of socialization can seriously impact a dog’s behavior. While the key socialization window is in puppies from birth to 3 months, all dogs benefit from socialization throughout life!

    We will touch on socializing puppies to prevent aggression below. If you need to socialize an aggressive dog, start here!

    1. Start Gradually: Introduce the dog to new people, animals, and environments in a controlled and gradual manner.
    2. Positive Reinforcement: Reward calm behavior with treats or praise, reinforcing positive associations with social situations.
    3. Professional Guidance: Consult a professional dog trainer or behaviorist to create a customized socialization plan.
    4. Desensitization: Expose the dog to triggers at a distance and gradually decrease the distance as they become more comfortable.
    5. Consistency: Maintain a consistent socialization routine, ensuring positive experiences to build the dog’s confidence over time.

    Don’t make the common mistake of exposing your aggressive dog to something and harshly punishing them for reacting! This outdated training method can cause dangerous behaviors to escalate. Read here for more information on why reality TV dog training methods are unsafe.

    As the owner of an aggressive dog, it is also of key importance that you manage your pet. Use an appropriate muzzle (like this one) and a quality slip-proof martingale collar to prevent mistakes.

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    How to Socialize Puppies to Prevent Aggression

    When socializing puppies, look for the following key experiences. Remember to keep exposure positive, fun, and rewarding! If your puppy seems nervous, take a step back. Look for ways to build their confidence around scary things (including the veterinarian). Use treats, praise, and play to make these experiences fun!

    • Walk around on different textures such as grass, sand, and gravel
    • Explore water such as puddles, kiddie pools, and ponds (with clean water)
    • Touch your puppy all over. Brush their teeth, and praise them for letting you examine them.
    • Play the sound of fireworks on your phone, and have treats magically appear after the sound is heard (fireworks predict treats)
    • Visit a park and watch children and dogs from afar
    • Have short, supervised play sessions with dogs that are known for being gentle and safe with puppies
    • Avoid leash tension! (More on this below)

    How Leash Tension Causes Dogs to Become Leash Reactive

    Cute puppies get by with a LOT.

    By that, I mean, many owners will put their puppy in a harness and let it bounce, pull, and lunge around on walks. Puppies are excited and direct their enthusiasm into their leash.

    Over time, the puppy learns that there is a lot of tension associated with being out in the world. This is especially true if they pull to greet humans and other dogs.

    Think about this logically for a moment.

    For a more mature dog, what does that same tension mean? That sensation can be frustrating and dare I say, anxiety-inducing!

    Instead of letting your puppy lunge around in a harness and learn bad leash manners, use a long leash to explore a field. Then take an AKC Star Puppy Class and learn how to install positive leash skills around other dogs.

    Puppy Fear Stages

    Puppy fear stages, also known as fear periods, are developmental phases during a puppy’s early life where they may exhibit heightened sensitivity and apprehension towards new stimuli.

    These stages typically occur at key points in a puppy’s growth, often between 8-11 weeks and around 6-14 months. During these periods, puppies may become more cautious, startle easily, or be reluctant to engage with unfamiliar people, objects, or environments.

    The reasons behind these fear stages are rooted in the puppy’s instinct for survival and self-preservation. It’s believed that these stages coincide with crucial developmental milestones, including brain and sensory system maturation.

    To support a puppy through these developmental milestones, owners should provide positive exposure to new experiences, people, and surroundings. Gentle socialization, using treats and praise to reinforce positive behavior, and avoiding forceful or punitive measures can help build a puppy’s confidence and reduce fear-based responses.

    Consistent, patient, and positive interactions during these stages contribute to a well-adjusted and resilient adult dog.

    Fear Aggression in Dogs

    Chronic Pain & Aggression in Dogs

    A dog who is in pain might begin to show behavioral problems. If you have ever been in pain, you might remember how short-tempered it made you!

    Dogs who are typically well-mannered and have positive behaviors that suddenly begin to demonstrate aggression might be experiencing pain.

    Hip Dysplasia or bad teeth are common reasons pets become more nippy and unstable than usual. Dogs with ongoing health problems related to kidney or heart disease may also have a short fuse.

    If you think your dog’s sudden aggression might be due to pain, it is important to take them to the vet as soon as possible. We recommend ruling this out first anytime your pet isn’t being themselves.

    For L/XL dogs, we recommend clinically backed joint support; this can be helpful for pets living with chronic joint pain! Talk to your veterinarian.

    Fear Aggression in Dogs

    Dog Aggression Caused by Dominance

    Dominance aggression in dogs refers to aggressive behaviors displayed by a dog attempting to assert control over a person, another animal, or a particular situation. People often refer to these dogs as “alpha”, implying that they are a leader.

    It is essential to understand that the concept of dominance in dog behavior has been debated among experts, and some believe that the term may not accurately describe canine behavior.

    If we look at our current scientific understanding of animal behavior, we now know that dogs are not always trying to assume the dominant position. However, this misunderstood concept still has a strong-hold in the community.

    That’s not to say that dominance in dogs doesn’t exist, though! Like humans, dogs will position themselves for the best access to resources. These resources might include attention, food, toys, treats, or a spot on the couch.

    Traditionally, dog trainers have approached rude ‘dominance’ behaviors with harsh punishment. Several wacky theories have even surfaced, surmising that owners can get control of their pets by biting their ears, jabbing them in the neck, or eating food first (while the pet watches).

    This outdated methodology is known to cause and increase aggression and is no longer a gold standard approach for pushy pets.

    If you have a dominant dog, look for ways to provide them safe access to resources while establishing good boundaries. Use positive reinforcement training to encourage the correct behavior, and don’t let them have free will to do as they please.

    This may mean changing your routine.

    • Don’t let a “dominant” or pushy dog be rude to other dogs. Say “uh-oh” and remove them from play.
    • If your alpha dog is guarding resources (such as a couch), don’t give them access to those things
    • Establish boundaries in your home. Rude dogs should not be allowed free roam.
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    How to Help a Fearful Dog

    If you think that your dog is displaying signs of fear aggression, there are things that you can do with your dog to help their fearful behavior.

    1. Create a Safe Space

    • Designate a quiet and comfortable area where the dog can retreat when feeling scared.
    • Provide a cozy bed, toys, and water to create a positive association with the safe space.

    2. Gradual Exposure

    • Introduce new people, environments, and stimuli gradually and in a controlled manner.
    • Use treats and praise to reward calm behavior during exposure, reinforcing positive associations.

    3. Positive Reinforcement

    • Reward confident and relaxed behavior with treats and affection to build the dog’s confidence.
    • Avoid punishment, as it can intensify fear and anxiety.

    4. Desensitization

    • Gradually expose the dog to fear-inducing stimuli at a distance and slowly decrease the distance as the dog becomes more comfortable.
    • Patience is key; progress may take time, and each dog will respond differently.

    5. Professional Assistance

    • Consult with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist for a personalized plan.
    • Professionals can provide guidance, assess the dog’s fears, and offer effective strategies for overcoming fear-based behaviors.

    It is always best to seek a qualified professional when it comes to a dog that is fear aggressive. Fear aggressive dogs can be unpredictable. Fearful dogs are not bad dogs, but they can be dangerous if not properly trained.

  • Great Dane Barking: What to Do When Your Dog Won’t Stop Making Noise

    Great Dane Barking: What to Do When Your Dog Won’t Stop Making Noise

    Great Dane barking can be a real problem. These dogs are known for their loud, deep bark, and sometimes it seems like they just won’t stop. If you’re dealing with this issue, don’t worry – you’re not alone. In this article, we’ll discuss the causes of loud or destructive behavior in your Great Dane and offer some tips on how to deal with it.

    Great Dane Barking: An Important Sign of Dog Breed Characteristics

    Great Danes are generally very mild, especially for such a large dog. But their bark can be quite deep and intimidating, which is so often associated in movies and TV shows as a sign of aggression.

    However, you do not want to jump to conclusions about the Great Dane temperament just because you are having a hard time stopping all of the ruckus and barking.

    In reality, your Great Dane is probably just trying to communicate with you. This is one of the most important things to remember when dealing with this issue.

    There are a few different things that your Great Dane could be attempting to say with its barking.

    Your Great Dane Dog Could Be Bored

    First, your dog may be bored. If you’ve noticed that your Dane only seems to bark when it’s left alone or doesn’t have anything else to do, this is likely the case. Dogs are social creatures, and they need stimulation and interaction just like we do. If you think your Dane might be bored, try adding some new toys to its toy box or taking it on more walks. You might also want to consider doggy daycare or hiring a dog walker if you’re gone for long periods during the day. Finally, long lasting bones are a great way to help your Great Dane have an activity throughout the day. Here are some of the best:

    Your Great Dane is Scared or Anxious

    Another possibility is that your Dane is trying to protect itself. This is especially common in Great Danes that have a history of anxiety or fear.

    It is most common amongst Great Dane owners to misunderstand their Great Dane’s fear for ‘honor’. Many people think that their big dog is trying to protect them as its owner.

    However, most of the time when you have large dogs who are expressing themselves with an abundance of reactive barking, it is not because they are scared for YOU… In fact, they are actually just scared for themselves.

    Working with a responsible and qualified trainer, practicing ethical and balanced training methods such as e collar training or crate training and providing enough exercise can be methods to help your Giant Breed conquer their anxiety.

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    The Best Crate for a Great Dane Puppy: Click Here

    Your Great Dane Simply Needs Boundaries

    Usually barking is a bigger issue with Great Dane puppies than an adult dog. However, at random times throughout the life of giant breed dogs, problems can pop up, including random barking.

    If you notice either your Great Dane pup or adult Great Danes are beginning to bark or react at random, and you have eliminated anxiety and boredom, you will want to work on reestablishing your Great Dane’s boundaries. You may want to examine whether you are making one of the 5 common mistakes that we see often with training Great Danes:

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    5 Common mistakes you may be making when Training Your Great Dane

    Consider the amount of exercise Great Danes should get in one day, invest in some good puzzle feeders to keep your Great Dane busy and motivated, purchase some quality treats to motivate your gentle giant, and begin working on creating those expectations. Here are a few of our favorite slow feeders to keep your pup engaged:

    And, here are a few of our favorite treat options:

    Do Health Problems Make Great Danes Aggressive?

    Do genetic health problems make Great Danes aggressive? That’s a loaded question, and one that scientists are still trying to answer. If you haven’t looked into common health issues that pop up with Great Danes, you may want to.

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    7 Health Battles that Great Danes Fight

    Click Here

    There is some evidence that certain health problems can increase aggression in dogs, but it’s still unclear exactly how much of a role those problems play.

    Hip Dysplasia / Joint Disease in Great Danes in Association with Barking, Growling, Lunging

    For example, hip dysplasia is a genetic condition that can cause joint pain and mobility problems. Some research has shown that dogs with hip dysplasia are more likely to be aggressive, but it’s mostly pointing to the fact that the aggression is caused by the pain rather than by actual health factors.

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    Arthritis in Great Danes? Read here.

    Chronic Pain in Great Danes and Barking

    Likewise, dogs who experience any form of chronic pain are more likely to act out aggressively. This is because they’re in a constant state of discomfort, and they may lash out as a way to protect themselves.

    A Dog’s Age in Correlation with Barking or Reactivity

    Different dog breeds age at different rates, and thus, have a different life span. Young dogs might be more tolerant to more things such as wrestling with other dogs or playing with young kids. Alternatively, a young, energetic Great Dane might be more eager to bark at a distraction walking outside of the window than an adult Great Dane.

    This could be for a variety of reasons, but the most likely scenario is that the adult Great Dane has already learned its lesson and doesn’t need to be reminded as often.

    For more information about the life span of a Great Dane, make sure to check this blog out:

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    How long do Great Danes live? Well, this sweetie named Harleigh is 10 and thriving! Read more here!

    Photo Credit to Chelsea & Harleigh at @mixedwithout

    Reactivity in Senior Dogs

    Conversely, senior dogs are more prone to developing health problems that can cause pain and other issues. They may also be more sensitive to things like changes in their environment or routine.

    While there isn’t a definitive answer on whether or not health problems cause aggression, it’s important to keep an eye on your dog’s health and consult with your veterinarian if you notice any changes in behavior.

    Reputable Breeders and the Role They Play with Your Great Dane

    For anyone looking to adopt a Great Dane, finding a reputable breeder is essential.

    Reputable breeders know everything there is to know about the breed and can help you select the perfect dog based on your lifestyle and preferences.

    Why Do Responsible Great Dane Breeders Matter?

    Additionally, responsible breeders prioritize keeping the qualities that make Great Danes so unique intact, while also working hard to eliminate inherent health issues in their lines. In other words, they are not just breeding dogs to breed dogs and the Great Danes that you find with a high quality breeder are not the same in regards to health and longevity as you would find at a pet store.

    Finding a Healthier Dog For Your Family

    Whether you are looking for a show-quality Dane or just want an energetic companion to take hiking, a reputable and responsible breeder will be able to help you find the perfect match for your needs. No matter what you are looking for, everybody wants to find a family member to love on for the longest possible life span.

    Bad Breeder Red Flags

    We have an abundance of resources on breed characteristics to look for in a Great Dane as well as what makes a well rounded dog and what to avoid from a Great Dane breeder. Be sure to check out our breeder resources here:

    Great Dane Puppies and Obedience Training

    Great Dane puppies are known for their lovely, friendly personalities and their eagerness to please.

    Whether you’re training them yourself or sending them off to puppy obedience school, it’s important to start early and be consistent in your efforts. This will ensure that your dane puppy grows into a well behaved canine companion who is always eager to obey your commands.

    Training a Great Dane Puppy

    Training a Great Dane puppy is unique to other dog breeds. One of the best ways to train a gentle giant is by taking advantage of their curious and playful nature. Take advantage of your young dog’s age and work with them in a fun and positive way. As long as you stay patient and upbeat, dane puppies will learn quickly and enjoy the process along the way.

    Using Treats, Praise and Fun for Your Giant Breeds

    To keep things engaging and interesting, try breaking up your training sessions into short segments, making sure to use positive reinforcement techniques like treats or praise when they perform successfully. Here are some of our favorite treat sets for gentle giants:

    Remain Positive with Your Great Dane

    Additionally, you should always acknowledge Danes for good behavior, even if it’s just a simple head scratch or a loving pat on the back. After all, every dog wants to feel loved!

    Ethical Use of the E Collar

    We are advocates for Dane owners use of ethical e collar training with their Great Danes. If you are interested, here are some resources for e collar training with Great Dane dogs linked:

    Whether you’re working with an older dane or raising a brand new pup, keeping things fun and rewarding will help build confidence as well as obedience in your Great Dane puppy. Remember that getting through those early puppy stages can be tough, but by being patient and consistent with your dane, you’ll find success with your giant dog.

    A Great Danes Environment and How It Contributes to Temperament

    Great Danes are such large and powerful dogs that they require a very specific environment in order to thrive. At times, you may notice that a Great Dane might change the way they act depending on their environment.

    The Great Dane Dog Breed is Very Intuitive

    Large and giant breeds are so in tune with their surroundings that they, at times, can take on those stressors.

    This can, in fact, lead to barking or destructive behavior, which can be really hard on pet parents for such a large breed.

    What Does It Mean To Socialize a Great Dane?

    Great Danes need plenty of space to move around and stretch their long, muscular bodies, and they also need regular social interaction, which does not always mean interacting with other animals or other pets. (Socialization can mean a whole ton of fun things!) Check out our guide for ideas!

    The Difference Between a Young and Adult Great Dane Dog

    A young Great Dane should be allowed to play with other puppies when possible, but also socialized in other ways and introduced to a dog trainer. Younger Danes may be more playful, excitable, high energy dogs. An older dog will appreciate the company of fellow older Great Danes or mellow human companions. Mature dogs are usually calm and easygoing compared to other breeds. Many Great Danes also love young kids!

    Additionally, Great Dane dogs tend to have a gentle temperament throughout their lives, but this can be influenced by a number of factors such as moving, household family members, their own Great Dane owners, and other pets in the house.

    Home Factors for a Giant Dog

    Many giant dogs are quick to pick up on different energy in the house. Did somebody in the family recently become sick? If so, is your Great Dane’s behavior different? Is there a new baby in the house?

    All of these things can play into how a Great Dane perceives it’s environment and, as a result, how they might bark or act out.

    A great dane’s behavior is largely contingent on their environment and the people in it. That’s why it’s important to provide them with a stable, loving home where they can feel comfortable and secure.

    Do High Energy Great Danes Display Different Behavior Issues?

    Although a Great Dane has a gentle nature compared to other dogs, some Great Danes are extremely high energy. And, like all dogs, high energy Great Danes can sometimes display different behavior issues.

    At times, a bored dog is a destructive dog. If your Great Dane is displaying Separation Anxiety, boredom or stress might be the root cause.

    Tips to Burn Energy in Great Danes

    Here are some tips on how to keep your high energy Great Dane entertained:

    1. Make sure they have plenty of toys to play with and that they are rotated regularly so they don’t get bored. Here are some of our favorite toys:
    2. Use a puzzle feeder for your dog’s food so that they can eat and be mentally stimulated at the same time. We linked some of our favorites for your convenience.
    3. Work on training with a long leash. This way they can run and explore while you are still in control. Practice commands such as come, sit, and stay.
    4. Only allow socialization with other dogs who you know to be friendly dogs. Stay away from a dog park that you are not familiar with and work to increase their intuition to trust responsible ‘role model’ dogs or humans.
    5. If your Great Dane is extremely active, consider getting them involved in dog sports! The National Breed Club offers an abundance of dog sports for Great Danes which can be an amazing avenue of getting energy out in a positive way.

    A Fulfilled Great Dane is a Quieter and More Peaceful Great Dane

    By providing your high energy Great Dane with plenty of exercise and stimulating activities, you can help prevent destructive (and loud) behavior.

    The best way to combat behavior that you want to see less of is by ensuring that your dog gets plenty of exercise – both mental and physical. This will help burn off some of that extra energy and keep their minds occupied so they’re not as likely to bark or act out.

    How Can I Get My Great Dane to Stop Barking at Other Dogs?

    Most dog owners have experienced the embarrassment of their dog barking uncontrollably at another dog, small or large.

    But for those of us who own a Great Dane, it’s a whole other level of mortification. After all, these are not small dogs we’re talking about – they are giant beasts that can unintentionally intimidate other breeds (and sometimes even people).

    So what can you do to get your Great Dane to stop barking at other dogs? Here are a few tips: 

    One: Understanding Great Danes and Their Origin

    First, realize that this CAN be an instinctual behavior for Great Danes. They were bred as hunting dogs to hunt wild boar, and their job was to track down and flush out prey. As a result, they have a strong instinct to bark at anything that moves. 

    So, does that mean it is okay for my Great Dane to bark and react?

    Yes, Great Danes were bred originally to be a hunting dog breed, however that does not make it ‘right’ for your Great Dane to bark inside your house, in a fenced yard, or react to other dogs. Currently Great Danes are NOT being bred as ‘boar hound’ dogs, and should be redirected AWAY from barking unnecessarily.

    Two: Is it Personal When My Great Dane Won’t Stop Barking?

    No, don’t take it personally when your dog barks at another dog – this is just their natural response to many things: anxiety, feeling out of control, fear, boredom, etc.

    Your Response is YOUR Responsibility

    However, the way in which you respond to their behavior IS personal- as it is directly YOUR behavior! When you are working with your Great Dane on their behavior, stay calm and be consistent with your commands.

    This is a lot easier said than done when you’ve got a 80lb+ dog barking their head off, but try to remain as calm as possible. If you get upset or anxious, it will only make the situation worse.

    Three: Socializing Your Great Dane Does NOT Mean Making Them Interact With Other Dogs

    So many owners in the dog world think that socializing from a young age means to get their puppy around other dogs from different breeds, the same breed, kids and humans, visit dog parks, etc.

    That is true, SOMETIMES, only if the other dogs are trustworthy and good role models.

    However, most of the time, socialization occurs when you provide opportunities for your Great Dane to be IN the chaos, but not APART of the chaos. An example of this playing out in real life would be sitting on a bench at a busy parking lot, teaching your dog to give you eye contact and ignore people or dogs that walk by.

    This practice teaches Great Danes that life is busy and hectic, kids / humans / dogs exist but they are NOT all his for the taking and he does NOT need to bark or say hello to each and every one of them! Additionally, this important skill can teach your Great Dane that you, as the owner, are the top priority.

    Four: What to do When You See A Barking Trigger with Your Great Dane

    Fourth, if you see another dog, squirrel, or other distraction while out walking your Great Dane, make sure to keep them under control and calm.

    If you know that your dog is particularly distracted by the German Mastiff neighbor that lives down the road, completely avoid walking down that side of the street, and instead walk on the other side of the street.

    Great Danes are fast learners and can pick up on things quickly, but will need guidance. Avoiding things is NOT irresponsible.

    Lastly, create a relationship in which eye contact is valuable. Providing treats and pulling the treats to your eyes before giving them to your dog is going to show your dog that your eyes are worth something good and positive.

    When you see a squirrel, ask for eye contact and proceed past the distraction– making sure to reward your pup for positive results.

    In Conclusion

    In conclusion, the Great Dane dog breed is a fascinating one that has ups and downs throughout its entire life span. At times, they can create annoying habits like barking, but it can be fixed with responsible, balanced training and work. Do not get discouraged, and always seek professional help when you feel in over your head!

    If you have any questions or concerns about your Great Dane’s behavior, please reach out to a professional dog trainer or behaviorist for help or reach us on our Facebook page for support.

    READ MORE:

    The Top 5 Adorable Facts About Great Danes

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  • Should I Use a Bark Collar on My Great Dane?

    Should I Use a Bark Collar on My Great Dane?

    Should I Use a Bark Collar on My Great Dane?

    If you are asking whether or not to use a bark collar on your Great Dane, we’re taking a wild guess that you are pretty fed up with the racket.

    Right?

    Great Danes have HUGE barks and it can be annoying, intimidating and frustrating (especially to your neighbors!).

    Should you use a bark collar for your Great Dane, or are there better ways? Read on, friends…

    Should I Use a Bark Collar on My Great Dane?

    Bark collars work by adding something aversive (bad or uncomfortable) when your dog barks.

    For example, a shock correction, https://www.hellodanes.com/should-i-use-a-bark-collar-on-my-great-dane/an ultrasonic noise, a beep or a spritz of citronella.

    In theory, your dog learns that barking = punishment.

    Unlike E-Collars and Shock Collars, bark collars are automated. They don’t require you to do anything; if the dog barks, the collar will correct your dog.

    Should I Use a Bark Collar on My Great Dane

    THERE ARE FOUR PRIMARY REASONS THAT DOGS BARK:

    Habit
    Boredom
    Anxiety
    Breed Trait

    WHY DO DOGS BARK?

    Before you work on training your dog not to bark, you MUST figure out why the barking is happening in the first place. Keep in mind that barking is a natural, normal thing, not unlike how humans talk to express frustration, relieve boredom and communicate.

    Look at the following situations and see if any apply to your dog:

    1. Habit – Your dog knows the mailman comes everyday at 3pm and waits to bark. The behavior has been unchecked and practiced daily.
    2. Boredom – Your dog barks at the window all day long, barks to hear himself talk and/or may bark to demand things. This goes hand-in-hand with habit.
    3. Anxiety – Your dog is stressed out by other dogs in the neighbor yard, stressed out when you leave the house, stressed out by people visiting your home, stressed on a leash and/or stressed out by noises in the environment.
    4. Breed Trait – Remember, by nature Great Danes do seek to ‘protect’ and alert. Many times, barking is just that. It’s important for that trait not to become obsession, or for it to be based primarily in fear and anxiety (which is VERY different than true alert barking).

    Many dogs bark for ALL of these reasons!

    SHOULD I USE A BARK COLLAR?

    Ok so you’ve evaluated that your dog is bored, anxious and/or has developed bad habits.

    Before you even think about a bark collar, you MUST address the root causes. 

    HABIT

    Should I Use a Bark Collar on My Great Dane

    HABIT: Find ways to change the routine. Don’t allow the behavior to be practiced in the first place. Change your daily habits so that your dog can, too.

    BOREDOM

    Should I Use a Bark Collar on My Great Dane

    BOREDOM: Add mental and physical enrichment, LOTS of it! Take a training class. Go for a hike. Off-leash train. Work on Canine Good Citizen skills. Play search and scent games. Clicker train. (Toys, a yard and another dog to play with are rarely enough!)

    ANXIETY

    Should I Use a Bark Collar on My Great Dane

    ANXIETY: A dog that is stressed out by the environment and by separation is a dog that needs your help. Work with a trainer to lower anxiety (and ultimately, lower the risk of bloat!), address separation anxiety and teach your dog that the world is an ok place.

    BREED TRAIT

    Should I Use a Bark Collar on My Great Dane

    BREED TRAIT: Some breeds are DESIGNED to bark! They may be EXTREMELY bored without a job to do.

    MY DOG IS BORED!

    UNDERSTANDING WHY YOUR DOG BARKS

    It’s important to understand that if you add a bark collar to a dog without addressing the root cause of the barking, there is a huge chance that you will confuse your dog or worse, increase their level of anxiety and stress. 

    Instead of relying on a hands-off tool, we much prefer to FIRST utilize training, mental enrichment, boundaries, routine and structure.

    THEN, if you have put the time into properly conditioning your dog to a legitimate E-Collar, you can use it to deter a barking habit in a hands-on, positive way.

    Basically put…do not put an automated bark collar on your unsuspecting, bored, stressed out, untrained dog and expect miracles. Address the root cause first, then look again at your options.

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    A quality bark collar may be an appropriate choice is when all underlying issues have been addressed and the dog is in a home where being surrendered, euthanized or picked up by animal control may be a reality otherwise.

    Should I Use a Bark Collar on My Great Dane

    We support the humane, ethical use of high-quality stimulation collars for communication and training. 

    A E-Collar from E-Collar Technologies may help resolve barking in dogs where root cause has been fully addressed AND the dog has been conditioned to the collar. A collar like this can also be used for recall and more. This is a hands-on approach. The truth is that you may find a massive reduction in barking, without corrections, just by jumping solidly into a new training and enrichment routine. 

    You can learn more about E-Collar training HERE: E Collar Guide

    Shop E-Collar Technologies HERE:

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    The collar you choose to buy REALLY matters. Click to see the devices we vouch for.

    For a hands-off approach, the ONLY bark collars that we recommend for the LAST DITCH EFFORT type situation is the E-Collar Technologies Barkless Pro E-Collar or the Garmin Pro BarkLimiter. These use a more humane E-Collar tech stimulation (not shock) and advanced technology when correcting the dog, which is the most appropriate choice IF you are going to use a bark collar.

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    Unlike the versatile E-collars above, automated bark control is the only thing these tools do.

    READ MORE:
    The Best Collars for Great Danes
    How to Crate Train a Great Dane Puppy
    E Collar Myths
    What is an E Collar?
    What is the Difference Between an E Collar and a Shock Collar?
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