Hi there, I have a beautiful black labrador called Ellie. She is three and a half. She really is the perfect labrador - but for one flaw! If she is off the lead she will bark at people walking on our common who don't have a dog with them, cyclists, walkers, runners in fact anyone. I usually spot the sign that she is about to give chase and bark at someone and can put her quickly on the lead until the person has passed. On the lead she takes absolutely no notice of these people who are targets when she is off the lead. I am not worried that she will bite anyone or do them any harm other than the fact that she probably terrifies the life out of them as she has quite a loud bark. Some people do react with hostility for which I don't blame them at all, I think I'd be frightened of her if she came running up to me and barking. She also barks at anyone coming to the door. I don't mind that but what I would like to be able to do is reassure her that they are friend not foe and for her to stop barking once reassured but I just don't seem to be able to achieve this. When I open the door and she recognises the person she does stop barking but I want to be able to open the door to people who might be delivering stuff without her barking constantly unless I shut her in another room which I don't think is helping the situation. I would love some help with this if anyone has any suggestions. Thanks.
Re: Barking at people Hi and welcome , the only thing I can think is that it sounds like she may be anxious and fearful off lead when she is not attached to you , which is when she feels safe . Maybe you could try having Ellie on a long line for a little while and see how she behaves ? At least you then have her under control and if you see that she is about to bark , you can reel her in and offer a distraction such as a treat or toy , hope that helps a little .
Re: Barking at people I agree - she sounds anxious. Put her on the lead when you see someone coming, keep her attention on you, and praise her to the skies afterwards for her good behavior...
Re: Barking at people Hi Julia, Some of the best information on barking can be found on the Kikopup youtube channel. Here are some which may be relevant to your situation Pippa
Re: Barking at people Thank you all for your advice, I will try anything and everything until I hit on something that works.
