Please help with dog training or advice
At breaking point with our dog, he’s 8 years old and we need some advice/support for what to do. Our life has changed, we have a 1 year old and since the child has come along my wife has been asking that we get rid of him, I’ve always said no but recently it’s become a lot. He has always been anxious, constant whining, but I’ve always said he’s ours and will never get rid of him. We had a trainer come a few years ago and gave some loop lead training and got him to sleep in a crate. Also tried some training to make him not reactive when people knock at the door but we couldnt get that to stick. Since our child has come along it is difficult to get alone time with the child, we can never really play with him unless the dog is put in another room as he always interrupts, barks, can’t play with a ball or any toys. Then if put in another room he whines and scratches the door. It’s not the dogs fault that our life has changed and I feel guilty constantly because of it. But also guilty that my child’s life is being impacted and has been this whole time.
I would never want to get rid of dog but the stress is getting worse. My wife has started an at home business with people clients coming to the house. Trying to keep the child happy and the dog from whining/barking is a nightmare and usually results in the child crying, dog screaming and me feeling stressed and losing my temper then with the dog.
It’s not the dogs fault at all, I want to keep him but I don’t know what to do.
I’ve seen an anti barking device online, are they worth it? Do they work? Is it harmful for the dog?
8 year old cockapoo