Friday, March 12, 2010

Dog Wont's Stop Whining in Kennel at Night

Question:

My dog, Rosey, always scratches and whines in her kennel at night. It is keeping my family up and we would like to get some sleep! What could help her stop whining in her kennel?

- Lexus

Answer:

Lexus,
The only way to remedy this problem is to ignore the behavior ENTIRELY. ANY response to the whining and scratching is considered to be positive reinforcement. You should put her kennel in an area that you cannot hear her and do not interact with her until the next morning. You might try a special toy, possibly one that is like a puzzle to distract her, or a chew stick, that is only given to her when she is in her kennel to alleviate her boredom. The most important thing is to not respond to the protesting, NO MATTER WHAT!

Good Luck,
Sara F. Jennen DVM

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