I agree that it sounds like Nana is anxious and trying to tell the owner something. I'm still learning about my Pyr but the validation approach was suggested to me and has worked with him - actually telling him he's a good boy and is right to be doing his job helps settle him down. Sometimes :-).
Three thoughts:
If Nana is getting older, have her hearing checked. I noticed as one of my Labs got older and lost some of her hearing she barked more. With a Pyr losing that auditory input might really be confusing. The owner will still have to decide what to do about the barking, but understanding if this is the cause could be helpful.
Second, definitely check out what's going on in the neighborhood. Go visit the neighbors you are on good terms with (even if they live further down the street) and ask if anything has changed in any of the surrounding households. A new pet? A new baby?
Third, I have seen advertised these things that appear to be birdhouses that are really producing high-pitched sounds. They are advertised as a way to get your neighbor's dog to stop barking.
A few questions - where is Nana when she is barking? Always in one location, or always looking in one direction? There migtht be some clues there.
Good luck to this woman, I hope she figures out a solution! |