Rowena Walker, 29, Cairns, Qld owns Unit, an American Staffordshire terrier who is obsessed with ceiling fans.
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Rowena asks:
We recently bought Unit. He loves being with us but when we allow him inside he is obsessed with the ceiling fans. He goes crazy and jumps up at them even when they are off. How can we stop this?

The Pet Whisperer

It's possible Unit had never seen a ceiling fan before he came to you. Dogs are very aware of their environment and are often fearful and anxious of things they have never seen before. Over time, he'll  get used to the fans and realise that they are nothing to fear. Try not to react to Unit's behaviour  as this can reinforce it

Bring him inside on a lead and do some basic obedience - sit, drop, stay - with him, first in a room where there are no fans. Once he reliably obeys your commands you can try the exercises in the room with fans. Reward Unit with treats for obeying commands and remaining calm. If he jumps up and barks at the fan, tell him 'No!' and repeat obedience commands. He'll eventually learn to relax and ignore the fans

Every fortnight, Kate Mornement helps with your pet behaviour problems. Just send your pet problem to:  TL! The Pet Whisperer, Private Bag 9500, North Sydney, NSW 2059 or email tl.petwhisperer@pacificmags.com.au

 
 


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