Hi,

Our miniature Schnauzer, Herbie, is being a bit over enthusiastic with his guarding during the night - he often barks at any time of night, always guarding (rather than attention seeking or needing toilet etc.). Usually it's at a neighbours car, or someone walking past, but its often directed at the back garden as well where there shouldn't be anything to bark at but bushes.

As we're two flights up (and usually asleep at the time) by the time I get to him he has stopped already so I can't really tell him "no" and I'm worried that if I praise him for being quiet he'll think I'm praising the barking!

Any idea how to deal with it? He's driving us (and probably the neighbours) nuts.

Has occured to me that we could use a no-bark collar (citronella etc.) during the night only, do you think this would be a good idea? I don't want him to lose his bark completely though, just at night!!!!

He's 7 months old and apart from this barking he is extremely well behaved and well trained.

Would appreciate any advice, many thanks

Jamie