how can i stop my springer spaniel barking at the vacuum cleaner

[sjs1006]

hi, i have a eight month old springer spaniel that barks at the vacuum every time i use it or even when i go the the cubbard that it is stored in. my neighbours are complaining that the dog barks too much. but i have to vacuum, any suggestions welcomed. thanks

[andyjevs]

Both my springers (aged 5 months and nearly 3 years) both go mad at the hoover.
I have to shout at them loudly not to attack it and it usually works as springers are pretty responsive.

Other than that, you might have to lock them in another room and tell the inconsiderate neighbours to go forth and multiply

[snook]

You can get a device that emits an ultrasonic sound automatically once your dog barks, and it's uncomfortable for the dog, so he stops (although it's harmless to him). It's meant to be used when a dog barks uncontrollably and needs to be deterred, but if you switch it on only when you're using the vacuum cleaner it should soon work out that you vacumming isn't an invitation to bark.

Here's one here

I know you won't like the idea, but once the dog gets the message, it's a case of job done, no more device!

[shaneystar2]

You need to desensitise him. Before you put the vacuum on have a little game with him first and give him a treat .Get someone to switch the cleaner on out of his sight in another room.Keep playing with him and get them to move the vacuum nearer to him.The moment he starts to bark switch it off and try again.You can also tape the offending appliance and play it back to your dog ..on low at first and then gradually turn it up .....switch off again as soon as the barking starts.Play it while he is eating his dinner.He will come to associate the sound with a pleasant thing like eating and this may calm him.
It doesn't always work with some dogs as sometimes it's not the noise they are barking at but the vibrations the appliance gives off.
It's tedious but worth a try.

[Robinia]

It must be a spaniel thing - I've got a KC spaniel & he did that when I first got him at 15 months old!

Here's what I did. I got the vac out, didn't switch it on & with one hand on his back encouraged him to come and have a good look & sniff at it. When he was satisfied with that I switched it on & of course he barked so I just stroked him and slowly moved the vac about - (not easy when you've a bad back!) until he calmed down. For me it worked really well & now he runs to me & lets me hoover him with the soft brush attachment!!

[shaneystar2]

LOL ...Robinia..Shaney loves that too !! In fact he stands there looking at me as if to say "Can I have a go"!!