3 replies to this topic

[cairnlover2]

We just installed a new dishwasher in our kitchen just last week. We feed our 3 dogs in the kitchen in.tbeirneater feeders. All 3 have had their food feeders in the same spot before the new dishwasher and afterwards. As soon as we used the dishwasher he was watching it from the living room and seemed intrigued by it. Now he doesnt want too eat by it and trimbles when hes close to it. What could be causing tbis and what is a good remedy too fix it? Right now we have too feed him in the living room some he cant see the dishwasher. Any suggestions?

[Idaho Cairns]

Yes, don't overreact to the dog's temporary fear of a new device. Your Cairn will not starve when food is available, put the food dish back where it was previously located and let nature run its course. Your Cairn has to live in your home and your home has a new device which the Cairn is not used to--you cannot protect the dog from the device nor should you since the device is obiviously not going to hurt the dog in any way--let the dog figure that out in its own.

[bradl]

Keep a pocket full of Charlee Bears or other small treats and occasionally toss one casually toward the dishwasher (with no other interest or drama, as Idaho suggests) as you pass by doing something else. Even if the other dogs keep grabbing it first, eventually the more skittish dog will probably start to elbow his way in to get his fair share.

We build interest in crates that way, too, for the rare dog who doesn't love their crate from the git-go. Just toss in a treat on the way by and otherwise forget about it. They get to tip-toe in and out without us looming over them. Gradually they start nosing around on their own, looking for loose treats. Eventually they hop in and stare at us, trying to hypnotize us into putting another treat into the box.

[cairnlover2]

Thanks for the suggestions. He finnally has let himself eat in front of the dishwasher. We are getting a new stove this Friday, hopefully he doesnt have the same anxisty about it.