Many houses are still protected by ornate kapu, the distinctive carved wooden gateways which were imported to Transylvania by Saxon settlers over eight centuries ago.

BBC: Mystical tales from Transylvania

"He's a creepy old man who stares at us through the bushes, " says Mr. Kapu, 28 years old, who runs an organic farm on the one-acre property with his wife, 27.

WSJ: Hawaii Turns to Dog Shrink as 'Incessant Barkers' Cut Plea Deals

"We have to say 'no' like a loving parent, " Mr. Oguss, who operates the East Hawaii Dog Psychology Center, explains to owners Henry and Lindsey Kapu, whose lenience he thinks makes the dogs feel free to bark.

WSJ: Hawaii Turns to Dog Shrink as 'Incessant Barkers' Cut Plea Deals