At my wit's end...

[handsomesmom]

I really hope someone can provide me with some behavioral and/or training advice, I would REALLY appreciate it. I feel like I want to rip my hair out with Handsome's behavior..!!

Handsome is 4 years old and ever since I can remember, he has been a VERY vocal Frenchie, especially when he's upset. He screams and howls inconsolably whenever he can't be involved in something or when I have to set him behind a doggy-gate.

For example, we had our new bed being dropped off today. I didn't want to risk him running out the door, so I set him behind a gate in the hallway. He could still see, but be safe. Needless to say, he was screaming and so frantic that the men asked how many dogs were making those sounds. So embarrassed, I could hardly hear the men speak! hmy:

It's especially bad because anytime I walk toward the front door, he will frantically run past me toward the door, barking to see who is there, even if it's nobody.

Same thing if he's on a leash and happens to see me or my husband driving away (to go get groceries). He's absolutely inconsolable and frantically thrashes around if we try to pick him up.

Is it too late for me to train him out of this absolutely crazy behavior? It's unacceptable and causes me extreme anxiety and stress.

Thanks for listening.

 

[MaplesMommy]

Im sorry to hear this Unfortunately I wont be much help but I hope somebody will be able to give some advice.
It sounds to me like he thinks he is the boss and pack leader and when you exclude him he gets upset because that's not how alphas should be treated. But he shouldnt feel like the alpha. Or it could separation anxiety.

 

[2bullymama]

I would go back to basics with him... And try to ignore the behavior (when you can)-- any attention is good in his mind.

Try using nothing in life is free as a tool, there is a sticky thread in trainings section.... Also consider an in home trainer to help you address--- it is fixable but will take a lit of time and patience


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[blushy]

I agree that it sounds like he thinks he is the alpha dog, which in turn causes anxiety. Alpha dogs should leave their pack, not the pack leaving the alpha, so when you restrict him or leave him, he gets anxiety, which is the noise and bad behavior.

I agree with starting off with the nothing in life is free, if they doesn't start to help, then I would consult with an in-home trainer so they can see what you mean first hand.

I had a dog with separation anxiety from my husband. Needless to say my kitchen was a complete disaster every time I came home, she broke her canines mauling her cages and baby gates, and even my doorknob! It's extremely stressful and I feel for you. Some dogs are natural alphas and over run you so quickly you don't realize what's happening!

Good luck!


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[davidh]

I agree, try the nothing in life is free, and that should help.