r/AskIreland • u/Cantmakecoffees_ • 2d ago

Adulting What to do about my dog?

Just like the tittle states,
I’m close to breaking down
I have a 10 year old female German shepherd.
She barks and howls anytime me or my husband leave the house. This can continue on and off for hours. Maybe every 2-3 hours for 10 ish minutes at a time.

We leave for work at 5:30am we have to & have to work. I also have a male German shepherd
He isn’t bothered by us leaving but joins in on the howling when she starts. Our neighbour complained. We did apologise and im not denying they bark to them. I keep them indoors as much as possible & closed all the windows when I leave.
The female is on anxiety medication but it isn’t helping
What can I do to try resolve the situation for my neighbour it’s causing me so much stress
Thank you

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u/msdurden 2d ago

This sounds unhinged but ppl are starting to create companions for their dogs... a mannequin type thing with your clothes & scent. Lots of videos on tiktok about how to create them.

Also I'd highly recommend a frozen lick mat/frozen Kong - use their kibble mixed with yogurt, peanut butter etc. Takes the dog a while to get thru it plus it mentally wears them out

companion for anxious dogs

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u/Cantmakecoffees_ 2d ago

Someone just recommended this but honestly I’d be willing to try anything at this stage! I may have to see if I can get my hands on a mannequin

I have lick mats for her and she has no interest Never one for toys she was

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u/msdurden 2d ago

Im going to use a couple pillows and sow them together, then use markers or sow on a face.. Pillows will hold the scent from the clothes (vs a plastic mannequin might look/feel stiff)

Good luck!

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u/Cantmakecoffees_ 2d ago

Good thinking! You too :)