Hi Bif, We have an Austrailian Labrador mix, which is 2 years old, about 40 lb.. For the past few month when the telephone rings she goes crazy. Runs back and forth telephone to telephone barking and jumping . After the phone is answered she becomes aggressive toward the person, jumping and snapping. Also when you make a phone call she starts the behavior.
We've tried calming her, the corrections are ignored during these episodes. We've tried squirt bottles, correction dog collar, also letting the phone ring to see if she would become accustomed to it. Rewards when she finally exhibits proper behavior, last only until its gone. Do you have any recomendations? As far as we know there has been no obedience training.
- Julie

Hi Julie, I have a few questions: How does one ignore a correction dog collar? Is this the only time she throws a fit? How about the doorbell -visits from the mailman, etc...? You say "for the past few months"; did your reaction to the phone change at that point? Any yelling or tense words on the phone could cause the dog to think of the phone as a threat. An isolation for the dog when the phone rings - a crate or room you can put her in and close the door - may help. You could try letting the phone ring for hours while no one is home, but check with neighbors first! But mostly, get some obedience training! Work with a trainer (in home) to see why she "freaks out" and modify the behavior. The shake can method may also work - but if it seems to get her more aggressive, do not use it. Her reaction to it is your feedback. Aggression from a family dog is nothing to fool around with. Get a good trainer and quick!

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