[MaxwellSmart]

OK, Brutus is starting to drive me to jump off the front porch.

It doesn't matter how many walks he gets, or a long visit to the dog park, or time with the laser pointer running around the backyard...he ALWAYS paces around at night usually between 8-11pm. And that's the time we're curling up to watch a baseball game or a movie.
We took down his crate for the time being but even then he would just bark the entire time while in it.

I work at home so it's not that he's home alone all day and just gets excited when people come home so the household dynamics don't really change.

We try to just ignore it and let him clam down on his own but it hasn't worked yet. Anyone know how to deal with this or have the same problem?

 

[Bock]

Just wanted to point out that by using a laser pointer you could potentially create a dog who is OCD towards light. Some dogs will chase anything such as the reflection from a nametag or watch etc after creating such an OCD.

How about a marrow bone? Keeps him busy with something to do and allows you guys to watch your movie or game.

 

[jwemt81]

I would really start working with him on the crate issue. He most likely will pitch a fit in there the first few if not several times. That's normal and to be expected from most dogs. Just ignore his barking and whining and he will eventually give it up settle down. Don't let him out until he has been quite for a good 2 minutes. If you let him out during his fit, he will quickly learn that all he has to do is bark and cry and he will be let out. You can also practice by crating him for short periods of time and let him out after he has stopped barking. Once you repeat this a few times, he should get the hang of it fairly quickly. Just don't give up on it and be consistent. Also, make the crate a fun place by putting a couple of toys in there. You could also toss a Kong with frozen peanut butter in there to keep him busy and quiet for a while. Crate training really is the best method. I couldn't imagine getting by without it.

 

[MaxwellSmart]

The laser pointer is on rare occasions because i figured how spastic he gets with it that it could cause a problem.
We used the crate a lot when he was younger but he started not wanting to go in it even with toys and treats. The crate was never a "bad place" as long as we were concerned. I'll put it back up and give a good effort then see what happens i guess. I hope this is just another phase.

 

[2Retrievers222]

maybe get him a friend

my guys play fight at night for a awhile
outside then sleep all night

 

[Heidi36oh]

I know what you're talking about, seems like no matter how many walks, runs they get, there is still enough energy to bug you..LOL

I'm lucky to have more then one and it really makes a difference, they entertain them self's to a certain point.

Chloe will still bug you to death but gets distracted by the others a lot!

I would try a nice a few treats for the night time, like Kong's or a nice bone to chew on.

Good Luck!