The Naughty Step — Not Just For Humans!

Thanks Supernanny!

I never used to watch Supernanny because I’m a teacher.  I work with kids all day long. The last thing I need is to come home to more screaming children.

But during the writer’s strike I turned it on occasionally, and I recently discovered that her naughty step technique isn’t just for humans.  It can, in fact, be used as a muli-species disciplinary technique.

Hamudi and I are still visiting my mother, and the new environment has made my already neurotic dog bark even more than usual.  And it’s not your typical bark.  It’s an ear splitting, wake the dead, shriek.  He’s only twenty pounds, but man, he’s got some serious lungs.  I’ve tried everything from the disgusting citrus spray collar to the sonic sound thing. Nothing has worked.  Except for, believe it or not, the naughty step.  

And I have proof:

Now, when he barks, I point to the stairs.  More often than not, he shuts up.  Today, he’s barked less than usual.  

When he’s done with his time out, he comes and sits at my feet (which I consider the “apology”) and then I give him a hug.  It’s exactly what Supernanny recommends. 

Now, if you try this with your own pets and it backfires or scars them for life, don’t blame me.  Try it at your own risk.  

All I know is that my neighbors, not to mention my ears, are grateful.

P.S.  For those of you worried about my mental state, I want to assure you that I do realize that Hamudi is a dog and not a human child.  Just had to state that for the record.

P.P.S.  If you’ve got any anti-barking tips, please share them here!