Re Wuffy Poodle

Kerryowner · #1 08-02-2010, 08:52 PM

My male Kerry Parker (affectionately known as "the Poodle" as I am always being asked if he is one!) has one, to me, annoying habit. We will play with a toy and Cherry (my female Kerry) will be quiet and keep bringing it right back to me to throw again but Parker will drop it at a distance and woof at me.

I think he is a bit dim and doesn't understand how to play the game as he used to drop his ball near other dogs on the heath and wuff at them to throw it for him! Fortunately that stage didn't last long as they never did.

He is otherwise extremely well-behaved as he will recall in full flight when chasing rabbits on the heath (his party trick when other owners are really impressed as he is a terrier), and has awards in agility, obedience and heelwork to music.

I think I have made the problem worse as when we are paying ball on the heath I let him bark as I don't think it matters when there is no-one else about but he can't contextualise.
Should I take the toy away from him when he starts barking or am I being mean?
Should I stop playing "throw the toy" type games and play "hide the toy" instead (he likes this). He is 8 years old (teenager in Kery years) and a very fit and healthy dog.

His barking annoys me as I am quite noise sensitive and I don't want him annoying my neighbours. Please advise.

KateC · #2 08-02-2010, 08:55 PM

Quote:

he used to drop his ball near other dogs on the heath and wuff at them to throw it for him! Fortunately that stage didn't last long as they never did.

There's your answer, right there

As soon as he gets gobby, turn smartly and walk in the other direction.

You throwing/playing with the toy must become contingent on him being quiet.

Kerryowner · #3 11-02-2010, 08:08 PM

Hurrah-it worked! I have been walking away from Parker when he starts wuffing for me to throw the toy and today he got the toy and sat near it looking at me!

He still starting wuffing again the 2nd time he wanted me to throw it but I just walked away. At least I feel he is moving in the right direction-it won't be solved overnight as it's been going on a long time.