Behavioural Issues

[jaybeece]

K9: what often happens though is that the dog enters drive peak & in this frame of mind, there is no data recording so the positive experience is not remembered.

If though that the event turns to aggression, defence drive motor pattern is run & what is remembered is that aggression is still a useful tool.

Now this is an interesting point which makes a lot of sense. Do you have any suggestions on how to change the reaction he turns to while in defense drive? I've just accepted that the aggression will always be lurking around in his skull somewhere so I've focused mostly on building his trust in me to help him stop feeling the need to become defensive so frequently. If his aggressive reaction can be replaced with something more positive though I'm all ears

[jaybeece]

you there K9? Are you able to answer the above question?

[Ruffles]

I am only a small woman (5'3") but he has been given no reason to try and guard me and we certainly dont encourage this sort of thing.

K9: he will not be trying to protect you as in for your own safety, he may be resource guarding you or be fear aggressive, only an observation will tell.

Regardless, its a leadership issue.

I recognise that now. I have started with NILIF and even in the last day or two we appear to be making progress and I am now very conscious of things like me walking through doors first etc.

Loki will not eat until he is told to, nor will he stare at his food till he is allowed to eat it. He will watch me or my OH until he is told OK. If you put down his bowl and leave the room he will sit by it and wait, sometimes for half an hour until you come and tell him its ok so we definately have that down pat!

K9: so if he can do that so easily it wont be commanding any respect when you give him his food so easily, you need to take this much further...

How would you suggest we take this further?

I only noticed the other night too that when he's eating he will leave the kitchen 4 or 5 times and come into the bedroom, look at me, then walk back out and continue eating. Would this coincide with him checking what his 'subordinates' are upto?

I have stopped acknowledging his presence when he does this, no eye contact nothing.

[Steve K9Pro]

Do you have any suggestions on how to change the reaction he turns to while in defense drive? I've just accepted that the aggression will always be lurking around in his skull somewhere so I've focused mostly on building his trust in me to help him stop feeling the need to become defensive so frequently. If his aggressive reaction can be replaced with something more positive though I'm all ears

K9: there is a limit to how far I can go on the net, aggression is a complicated issue & there isnt room for trial & error.

It takes me most of a 2 hour consultation to get a clear picture of what needs to be understood before we go anywhere near the dog.