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My dog does that to me too. Usually she's trying to tell me something and I just have to figure out what it is. If I'm sitting and she comes up and barks at me, then when I stand up she'll lead me to what she wants (leash to go for a walk, back door to run around in the yard/go potty, a toy stuck under the couch, her treat box). Sometimes she does it if she knows I'm mad at her for something.
My dog does that to me too. Usually she's trying to tell me something and I just have to figure out what it is. If I'm sitting and she comes up and barks at me, then when I stand up she'll lead me to what she wants (leash to go for a walk, back door to run around in the yard/go potty, a toy stuck under the couch, her treat box). Sometimes she does it if she knows I'm mad at her for something.
I know what you mean, but the way my dog barks is different. More like I startled him.
One time I brought him in from a walk, he walks into the living room and I follow, take my coat off, and he turns around and starts barking like I'm some stranger.
How long has he been doing this? Does the behavior recur after you correct him, or is it only when he sees you again after a brief separation?
It's possible that he's challenging you for "pack position" or seeking attention, but those behaviors would be more frequent than what you've described and in more varied circumstances. I think it's more likely that something you are doing or wearing is a trigger for him and he goes into protect or alert mode. Can you think of any possible triggers? Are you wearing a hat or clothing that he's not accustomed to or that somehow makes you look - or smell - differently, or perhaps reminds him of an unpleasant experience before you got him 5 months ago? Could he think he needs to protect your girlfriend? Another thought: how is his eyesight? If he doesn't see you as clearly from a distance as when you are closer, he may perceive you to be an intruder/stranger until you speak and he then recognizes your voice.
A vet check could be helpful, as could a consult with a behaviorist.
How long has he been doing this? Does the behavior recur after you correct him, or is it only when he sees you again after a brief separation?
It's possible that he's challenging you for "pack position" or seeking attention, but those behaviors would be more frequent than what you've described and in more varied circumstances. I think it's more likely that something you are doing or wearing is a trigger for him and he goes into protect or alert mode. Can you think of any possible triggers? Are you wearing a hat or clothing that he's not accustomed to or that somehow makes you look - or smell - differently, or perhaps reminds him of an unpleasant experience before you got him 5 months ago? Could he think he needs to protect your girlfriend? Another thought: how is his eyesight? If he doesn't see you as clearly from a distance as when you are closer, he may perceive you to be an intruder/stranger until you speak and he then recognizes your voice.
A vet check could be helpful, as could a consult with a behaviorist.
Maybe a month, if that. I thought the same thing -- I was wearing something that would make me seem new. Can't think of anything that was consistent. I would imagine it's more of a pack level thing rather than attention as he pretty much gets constant attention when we are home.
I'm in no position to tell anyone not to spoil their dog but trainers will tell you not to give a dog "constant attention". That could foster unwanted behaviors.
And you were kidding about little dogs on another thread right? All my dogs have been 50 lbs. plus but some of my best friends are little guys.
I'm in no position to tell anyone not to spoil their dog but trainers will tell you not to give a dog "constant attention". That could foster unwanted behaviors.
And you were kidding about little dogs on another thread right? All my dogs have been 50 lbs. plus but some of my best friends are little guys.
yes I was.
and I didn't really mean "constant attention" but the dog is not really alone once we get home. That's what happens in a 1br apt
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he handles everything else normally.
