How to Stop a Golden Retriever Whining
Amongst all the non-aggressive dog behavioral problems that owners of golden retrievers encounter, it may well be whining that is simultaneously cute and crappy. On one hand, it is cute when puppies look up at you with their soulful eyes like a baby begging for your attention. On the other hand, it can be crappy when the whines become excessive especially when coming from an adult dog.
In both instances, you should take the necessary measures to stop whining at its early stages. Keep in mind that whining can be as great an issue as barking, biting and growling at the most inappropriate times.
Reasons for the Whining
Think of whining as your golden retriever’s way of either getting something that he wants or expressing his feelings. Most dogs will whine when it wants something in your possession like a food on your plate or a toy in your hands; when it wants to be with you inside or outside the house; when it is protesting its imprisonment, in a manner of speaking, in its crate; and when it needs to go outside to answer to the call of nature.
No matter the reason and no matter how loving an owner you may be, you have to determine which of the abovementioned reasons your dog’s whining falls into. It is safe to say that only the need to go potty outside is the acceptable reason to whine but even this behavior must be stopped so as to avoid it becoming an annoying habit.
Remedies to Stop the Whining
Let’s address the issue of your golden retriever whining so as to be let outside to go potty first. In this case, you have to immediately let your dog outside to do his thing. After the deed, do praise your dog for his good behavior. In the future, however, you must anticipate your golden retriever’s bathroom needs and then letting him outside even before he starts to whine.
As for the other reasons for his whining, you can apply these practical tips to stop the harmless but annoying habit:
* Ignore your golden retriever. He may only be trying to get your attention through whining, which you may have encouraged as a puppy when you almost immediately came to his side at the first sign of a whimper.
* Give several commands in quick succession. This way, your dog will be distracted from his whining and instead focus on your commands, which is a more productive and positive use of both your time. Then, you should reward your dog with hugs and words after completion of the commands.
* Ensure that your golden retriever’s crate or kennel is a positive place for him to stay in. Keep it clean and comfortable as well as sufficiently filled with toys and food.
The most important piece of advice to keep your dog from whining is to spend extra time with him during his quiet times. He may only be in need of your attention, which an extra few minutes will suffice for the purpose.