title: Evaluating a humane alternative to the bark collar: Automated differential reinforcement of not barking in a home-alone setting.
abstract: The aim of this study was to develop a humane alternative to the traditional remote devices that deliver punishers contingent on home-alone dog barking. Specifically, we evaluated the use of remote delivery of food contingent on intervals of not barking during the pet owner's absence. In Experiment 1, 5 dogs with a history of home-alone nuisance barking were recruited. Using an ABAB reversal design, we demonstrated that contingent remote delivery of food decreased home-alone barking for 3 of the dogs. In Experiment 2, we demonstrated that it is possible to thin the differential-reinforcement-of-other-behavior (DRO) schedule gradually, resulting in a potentially more acceptable treatment. Our results benefit the dog training community by providing a humane tool to combat nuisance barking.
authors.affiliation: University of Florida.
authors.forename: Alexandra
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Protopopova
authors.affiliation: Alcorn Mcbride, Inc.
authors.forename: Dmitri
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Kisten
authors.affiliation: Arizona State University.
authors.forename: Clive
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Wynne
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001331:Automation / Q000379:methods*; D001521:Behavior Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods*; D001522:Behavior, Animal / Q000502:physiology*; D003192:Compulsive Behavior / Q000517:prevention & control*; D004285:Dogs / Q000502:physiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012054:Reinforcement, Psychology; D014828:Vocalization, Animal
keywords: animal welfare; differential reinforcement of other behavior; dog training; problem behavior