There are many reasons that your dog may have a whining problem. When you learn why they are whining, you will be able to control the problem.
A couple of reasons dogs whine are that they are not feeling well, or that they are lacking attention. The whining is simply a form of telling you that’s something’s not right. Whining due to feeling lonely or in need of attention can be simply cured by spending some time playing with your dog. Dogs that aren’t feeling well for other reasons should be taken to a vet promptly.
Your dog may also whine due to the fact that you are not at home, in this case she may be experiencing anxiety about you being away. The best way to cure this is by slowly getting your dog used to the fact that your leaving does not mean you will not be back. You may try leaving the dog for much shorter periods such as 5 or 10 minutes. This gets them used to the fact that just because you left, it is no big deal, you will return shortly.
While teaching your dog using this method, make sure that leaving the house and returning is never made to be a big deal. For example, when you do return, wait a good 10 minutes before saying hello to your dog. This will show your dog that you coming and going is no big deal, nothing worth getting carried away about.
Once you have practiced this method with your dog and he can tolerate being alone for ten minutes or so, start to increase this time in 5 minute slots until you are away for an hour or more. You dog will slowly learn that you coming and going is normal behaviour and it won’t be as difficult for him.
Another approach to stop your dog whining is to using negative reinforcement. This method is rather controversial however as it involves ignoring your dog which can be dangerous if he has a real problem. Firstly, tell your dog in a firm way to stop whining. If your dog doesn’t stop, start making some loud unpleasant noise that your dog will associate with the whining. In time your dog will learn that whining is unpleasant and will stop.
It is important that no matter what method you use, or how bad the problem is, you should never resort to physical violence with you dog. Abusing the dog is a crime, not only against the law but it is an inhumane way to treat a pet. Abused dogs are less likely to train well anyway. Treat you dog with loving, but firm respect and give him a safe training environment and watch how quick he starts exhibiting the desired behaviors.
