Shihtzu Lover here!

I am going through a very upsetting time at the time. My older basset is now on regular medication from the vet due to pain in her spine the vet says its not worth giving her an operation due the bone condition and her age and the fact that she did not recover well from the last time she had to be knocked out for a dental.
My next issue is also heartbreakingly with Tucker, he is so lively and wants to play with the old girl, The old girl and the other basset have been snapping at him I guess what also hasnt helped has been my lack of mobility to be able to take him out lately due to my pain. Now he seems to whine and bark every time when I am out of his sight for a minute or two, to the point that my neighbour is not very happy. I am now wondering what on earth im going to do. I do feel at the moment it has not been fair on him due to my mobility issue. I have tried playing fetch with him in the garden which he loves but it just doesnt seem to be enough exercise for him. Im in a real catch 22 situation, if I move him into another room away from the old girls they start barking because they think they are missing out on something and if I put him in another room he barks. I  bought an anti bark device which makes an ultrasonic sound, ment to discourage the dogs from barking, this seems to not be much use with him. I cant go to the loo without him whining or barking. goodness me!!

I am so sorry to hear all this Tracy. Would it be an idea to get a second opinion on your Basset in case they have another theory that could help.
As to Tucker that is a great shame. But as to what is causing him to behave like that I think only Lesley could help you with that. It must be very difficult with as you say you having mobility problems as well. I do feel for you. I am sure  when Lesley comes on here she will do her best to offer some kind of help.
xx

I am so sorry to hear you are having problems Tracy, it can be really hard when we don't know what to do for the best. I can't suggest anything for your older basset I am afraid, but would it be possible for a friend or neighbour to take Tucker out for a good walk or run so he can burn off some of his excess energy, which might help him be a bit calmer at home? I am sure others will be around soon to give some advice but try not to worry too much as Tucker will undoubtedly pick up on your worry. 

Tucker and I seem to making some slow progress. I have filled a can with little stones and sealed the top and when he barks i throw the can on the floor, this seems to stop the barking for a while. I guess the noise of it startles him a little and perhaps is enough to distract him from the bark.
Today we had good results ive not had to use it so far more than once!
I gave him a good play time in the garden for an hour too aswell as some grooming time and treats for his good behaviour. Its someting when ive had to take a can of stones to the loo with me haha! but its worked well so far. Hopefully this might do the trick. I had tried training discs but he grabbed them and shook them like a toy, so he though they were playtime.
My pain is now calming down a bit at last so im hoping to resume some sort of walk as from tomorrow again. He is a lively little boy, but gorgeous all the same, and of such a beautiful nature.

Oh Tracy that is progress indeed. It is good you are taking it slowly as it will be better for you both. Nice to hear your pain is subsiding which will also help.

So glad you are feeling better and more positive about Tucker. It seems like the stones are making a big difference, and with lots of positive reinforcement from you I am sure things will get better for you all.