[l8lelia]

the pros & cons of 'debarking'? I live in a complex which will allow me to have a dog if it is virtually silent. As I am at work during the day, I (and my manager) need to know that the dog will not disturb others while I am gone. Additionally, what are the immediate and long-term effects of 'de-barking'? What is debarking?

[johnnymat55]

a breed of non barking dog is a besenji. also small and friendly, loving pet.

[deogee]

I had an Alaskan spitz that only barked when someone came to the door. I lived in apartments for years with her the best dog I ever had I miss her very much she died at age 14 and was the best dog I could of ever hoped for havent seen or wanted another since her death. So easy to train and very loyal.

[thepainter]

debarking is sick and cruel. please dont do that.

[holly_a_johnson]

Any dog can be trained not to bark. Some breeds are easier to work with than others. Do web searches for info on breeds, especially characteristics for vocalizing or nervousness (a more anxious, tense, nervous dog/breed will be more apt to respond inappropriately to outside/hall noises, separation anxiety, etc. I recommend that once you decide on one/two breeds, contact a breed rescue organization and see what they have to offer. They are often a source for older, often well-trained, dogs who need a loving home. I would generally recommend adopting from the pound, but in this case you wouldn't have as good an idea of its breed/traits/history - they are often not there long enough for their "quirks" to be well-identified. Rescue groups often work with a core of people who foster the animals for a longer time and really know the animals. Inform the contact person of what your needs are, they are a wealth of information on the individual dogs. Re debarking - I believe it is the surgical severing/removal of the vocal cords or voice box. I cannot think why anyone with a "companion" animal would do this to a creature, esp. for "convenience" sake. Finally, read up on good dog-training books (the Brit lady "there's no bad dogs, just bad owners" or the Monks of New Skete) for good info on training. And remember, bored dogs are troublesome dogs. You will need to make sure the dog doesn't start making noise because of lack of exercise, boredom, anxiety, etc. Good luck. Please consider adopting an older, mature dog - you'll bypass all the puppy issues (noise, housetraining, chewing, etc.)!!!!!

[living dead girl]

i know this isn't the answer you were looking for - but a suggestion.get a cat instead,they are silent,much cleaner,don't tear up as much stuff ect. if you are at work during the day how are you going to potty train the dog?that is alot harder than you think.de barking? i have never heard of that procedure,but it sounds inhumane-there are those shock collars to keep them quiet but why would you want to do that,its awful.i would highly recommend a cat for your sake,and the sake of the animal.

[Dobbi]

A dachshund. I have one that only barks and growls when she is playing. Debarking is a very bad thing to do to a dog. It is a surgery that removes the dogs vocal cords.I suggest that you don't debark any dog!

[Kimberly]

Debarking if done properly by a responsible vet it can still cause complications because of the scarring in the throat is causes which limits your dogs windpipe. What makes you think your dog will bark all day? I have 2 in an apartment and they both sleep all day while I'm at work. (i've set the webcam to record where they are so i know this for a fact) There are a few things you'll need to do for that. Most important you need to be a leader to your dog. Get a good training book like Jan Fennel or Ceasar Millan (not endorsing techniques just offering examples) They and others teach how to be Alpha so your dog sees you as the leader. This way when you leave you don't have a dog panicing that you're leaving and he/she won't be there to "protect" you. Laugh if you want this seriously happens. If your dog sees itself as the alpha it feels responsible to protect you which is why some dogs get aggressive with stranger. You also might consider a shelter dog, they are a bit older and more able to stay in all day without having to go out and relieve themselves and take a few days off work to bond with the dog so it can be comfortable in your apartment and with you. Once you've gotten a dog and its settled in your apartment test its reaction when you leave. Put your coat on and with as little fan fare as possible grab your keys and walk out the door. Stand outside the door and see what the dog does. Also consider crate training the dog or using an X pen. This will prevent the dog from damaging the apartment and costing you money.