Use this space to discuss training issues -- brag about successes, lament setbacks or bounce a question off the group.

We're wrapping up our (I hope) our annual "no bark" classes. Each spring, it seems, my dogs and the neighbor dogs on two sides forget that we all agreed that barking incessantly is not allowed through the fence.

I don't know if it's because they don't see each other as often in winter or that it's not as much fun to run up and down the fence in the snow, but a refresher course is always in order.

In the past, I've resorted to a water bottle -- or the threat of one -- on my dogs, but that hasn't been necessary this year. If we catch it as soon as they start, we've been able to quiet them down with a "no bark," followed by a treat or a toy for compliance. Occasionally, I'll walk out with them and reward for no barks before it starts.

Eddie, surprisingly, has been the best. He typically doesn't bark in the first place until Jillie or the neighbor dogs start it. Then he's the first to quiet down. Jillie is the instigator. She'll let off a yip the moment she walks out there door -- testing to see if she can get a reply. If she does, she'll let off a couple more yips to make sure Lucy heard her.

By the time I get out there, Jillie has quieted down and Lucy's in full-throated mode. If I didn't know better, I'd blame it all on Lucy.

Fortunately, it's a problem that doesn't persist. None of us leave our dogs out all day long, so the barking is a temporary nuisance, and the neighbors and us are all on the same page.

What's up with your pack?