Effect of Classical Counterconditioning (Quiet Kennel Exercise) on Barking in Sheltered Dogs

Abstract

A major welfare concern in animal shelters is excessive barking from kenneled dogs. This contributes to noise pollution, can cause hearing damage in both dogs and humans, and has a negative effect on all animals housed within earshot. Excessive barking is often driven by fear and frustration, negative emotional states often difficult to alter in the shelter setting. This study demonstrated implementation of a simple classical counterconditioning measure, the Quiet Kennel Exercise (QKE) in adoption wards at an open admission shelter improved the emotional state of dogs, reduced fear, frustration and excessive barking.Baseline data were collected over two weeks using a hand-held decibel meter to measure the volume of barking in each ward three times daily. Mounted cameras were used to document the number of people passing through each ward each day. Data were collected for 18 days of intervention over four weeks. During this time, signs were placed to encourage people to toss treats to each dog, and treats were provided in buckets. Decibel levels were measured three times daily and the numbers of people who did and did not toss treats were recorded to measure compliance.There was an increase in compliance and a decrease in maximum decibel readings over the course of the intervention. For each one percent increase in compliance, there was an average decrease of 17.3 dB in the maximum volume in decibels. Therefore, increasing participation in the QKE can significantly decrease barking volume. This easily implemented intervention has the potential to decrease noise levels and improve welfare for both humans and dogs in kennel settings.