Pom/Terrior barks at doorbell, Melbourne (Vic)

My pom/terrior cross is beautiful and very loyal, however her major fault which stresses us out is when the doorbell rings. She goes nuts and runs to the door barking very loudly. If I picked her up and hold her she is ok. If I open the door with her at my feet, she trys to get out and will run across the road and pee on the grass of my neighbour. Only to return in 5-8mins when she's finished sniffing around. She won't listen when you call. She also barks through the front study window when another person/dog passes by. When a particular dog goes by, she just abouts hyper-ventilates and jumps up high doing a 360 degree turn in the air. When we grab her she gets nasty with a growl or sometimes squeals, and even though her mannerism appear nasty at that time, her tail is still wagging. She can't be told to top during either of these two events. Any sensible suggestions!
Posted: 02/09/2007

Answer: Pom/Terrier barks at doorbell, Melbourne (Vic)
I am hoping she is motivated. I will suggest the following: with her on a lead, we need to practice her reponse to the door bell ringing. Ring the door bell and immediatly take control of her reaction by offering a treat. Have her sit, and hold her attention while your 'visitor' comes in. Then reward her. She should start to associate the door bell with Treat! Keep the treats at the door. Practice, pratice! The same theory can be applied to dogs walking by the study window, or - you could get blinds! Haha
Posted: 06/09/2007