Dog is freaking out over face masks

#Middlebury #Dogs

DEAR PAW’S CORNER: Every time I put on a medical face mask, my dog, Artie, starts barking like mad. When I speak to him, he will stop barking, but he looks restless and whines. He doesn’t bark at strangers that we pass on our walks – just me and my husband. What is going on? – Sarah S., Burlington, Vermont

DEAR SARAH: Artie is freaking out because he is familiar with you and your husband’s faces, and suddenly, without warning, those faces are gone! He may rely on your faces for visual cues, like a smile or frown. The sudden change is unnerving him.

Taking off the mask isn’t an option right now, especially in areas that mandate face mask use whenever you’re outside due to the pandemic. Instead, the American Kennel Club recommends both desensitizing dogs to the face mask and helping them associate positive things with it.

Before putting on the mask, show it to Artie and let him sniff it. Carry a mask around the house, but don’t wear it; let it hang off of one ear, or wear it under your chin, so that Artie sees you with it regularly. The AKC even suggests taping a mask on the wall next to Artie’s food bowl, although if he shows signs of stress having it there, take it down and try something else.

Try using hand signals that correspond to the command or praise you want to give. This can help redirect his attention from your face and help him make the connection that you are still there and providing guidance.

Make sure that Artie is in a comfortable state before training sessions. Ease off if he begins to act concerned or stressed.

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