My Westie tries to attack the vaccum cleaner. How can I make him stop?
The best thing to do is get him used to it. Ignoring him for the most part will help, but if you assure him its not a closet monster – he’ll soon come to ‘respect’ its precense. Its just he’s trying to protect you. When you first notice this behavior, be sure to turn off the vaccum and then then slip a leash on your pooch. Holding it firmly, turn the vaccum cleaner on, reach down and pet your Westie (if its safe at this point) and tell him thank you. Then step forward toward the vaccum, the entire time assuring him what a good boy he is. If he begins to bark, start the process over. It may be easier if you have another person helping you through this. The more he is exposed the better it will get. If it doesn’t try spritzing him with a water bottle after you’ve thanked him and asked him to hush. When he doesn’t hush – give him a refreshing spritz and a firm – NO Bark! There are several things you can do to help your Westie overcome his hatred of the Closet Monster, but time and patienc
