KOE Posted January 27, 2007 Share Posted January 27, 2007 We are really, honestly, at our wits end. It has gotten to the point where I cry when I look at him. I am starting to hate him and that is not the way I want to be with a family pet. I've never been without a dog, I love dogs so much, but I really can't cope with him. quote above If you hate him let someone else take him please for the dogs sake, I have 3 gsd's and both me and my husband work fulltime shiftwork and my dogs are great they have each other whilst we are away and when we are home they are with us, inside the house. I never owned a GSD until 5 years ago but did a lot of reading first, and that is one thing you dont do with any dog leave it mainly to its own devices no wonder he is a nutter. Walking each day for a short time then being left in a back yard no matter how big it is, is not a life for a GSD. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
tarope Posted January 27, 2007 Share Posted January 27, 2007 Bullygirl, you have chosen a breed that is not for everyone, German Shepherds can be very difficult and stubborn- as you now know. socialization and obedience training from an early age is a must, you must learn to handle and control the dog. I am no expert, so when my Shepherd girl was 4mths, I took her to obedience training run by the German Shepherd Dog League. here I learnt how to handle and control her, the same for my Shepherd dog- who was harder to train. you must do the training with your dog, so he knows your in control not him. this is not done overnight, I'ts ongoing. years later mine still go to our local all breeds club they love it. shame you live so far from any training club, chains and muzzles are not for dogs. we use food rewards and it works, this is a very intelligent breed, loving and loyal. It's not the dogs fault, don't give up keep trying. on tug o war my Shepherd bitch loves it, I play it with her all the time. my Shepherd dog won't play it. Our Rottie loves it also, sometimes I'll have a tug o war with both. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sas Posted January 27, 2007 Share Posted January 27, 2007 (edited) Without wanting to sound mean - please contact breed rescue for him if his breeder cannot take him back For someone involved in rescue I would have thought you would rather encourage re-educating and training before moving a dog onto a new home? The owner is willing to try, yes they have made mistakes but as hard as it is to comprehend the world away from DOL is full of people who don't have a great deal of education or knowledge in Dog Behaviour or Training.....this of course something you comprehend being involved in rescue.............and here is one seeking help and assistance.....not something that is so common these days. Sometimes such simple things can make a situation have a complete 360. If I was in the situation, I would say give a month or two on a new strict leadership, training and exercise program with 100% consistency and if there is absolutely no change then, then I would be considering contacting the police/detection training services as this dog sounds to have a great amount of drive and would throughly enjoy having a job. Edited January 27, 2007 by sas Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Erny Posted January 27, 2007 Share Posted January 27, 2007 (edited) Why has someone not suggested Drive training, or did I miss that? This dogs sounds like he has a tonne of drive and would really benefit from it. Sas .... it's not that I or any of the others who are endeavouring to assist BG by guiding her and her dog to harmony don't have that in mind or haven't thought of it. This is the type of thing that can be explored when BG (or, at least her OH) obtain one-on-one professional help. To suggest it is one thing. To try to teach it over the net is another. Don't forget there are other factors possibly going on here (everyone's concluded "boredom" ..... which is a big possibility - but is not conclusive) that may well need more attention other than solely leadership and drive training. IMO, BG has taken the first big step towards remedying the GSD's problems. IE .... she's admitted and announced there are problems. She's been honest and open with what she's done, what she's tried (and why), and what has not worked. Didn't any one of you ever make mistakes in your life? I don't hear BG blaming the dog (not like I do from many others in their own situations). She's saying she is now at a loss and is seeking help. The suggestions have been made and by the sounds of it BG has taken it on board and will be taking steps to accomplish success. Heavens to Betsy ..... she's confirmed the 10 hour trip to Steve (as suggested) is now a liklihood. Give her a chance - it's hardly as if she can "beam me up Scottie" and simply be there. Obviously the appointment and the trip needs to be arranged. I think it's pretty clear she's got the message about not tethering via a check chain. And it doesn't completely sound to me as if the dog has merely been stuck outside with no attention. Give her a break and a chance to re-unite with the dog. Sounds like she wants to make the effort. That's more than I can say for many who seek advice and get it. Often when it involves effort they simply chuck the advice out the window. So rather than bludgeon this girl for past mistakes (of which we've all been guilty in one shape, form and degree) encourage her for stepping up to the plate to retrace her steps in regards to their relationship with this dog. ETA: Sas - this post was not directed at you .... it was really just a follow on after having responded to your post. Edited January 27, 2007 by Erny Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sas Posted January 27, 2007 Share Posted January 27, 2007 Why has someone not suggested Drive training, or did I miss that? This dogs sounds like he has a tonne of drive and would really benefit from it. Sas .... it's not that I or any of the others who are endeavouring to assist BG by guiding her and her dog to harmony don't have that in mind or haven't thought of it. This is the type of thing that can be explored when BG (or, at least her OH) obtain one-on-one professional help. To suggest it is one thing. To try to teach it over the net is another. Don't forget there are other factors possibly going on here (everyone's concluded "boredom" ..... which is a big possibility - but is not conclusive) that may well need more attention other than solely leadership and drive training. IMO, BG has taken the first big step towards remedying the GSD's problems. IE .... she's admitted and announced there are problems. She's been honest and open with what she's done, what she's tried (and why), and what has not worked. Didn't any one of you ever make mistakes in your life? I don't hear BG blaming the dog (not like I do from many others in their own situations). She's saying she is now at a loss and is seeking help. The suggestions have been made and by the sounds of it BG has taken it on board and will be taking steps to accomplish success. Heavens to Betsy ..... she's confirmed the 10 hour trip to Steve (as suggested) is now a liklihood. Give her a chance - it's hardly as if she can "beam me up Scottie" and simply be there. Obviously the appointment and the trip needs to be arranged. I think it's pretty clear she's got the message about not tethering via a check chain. And it doesn't completely sound to me as if the dog has merely been stuck outside with no attention. Give her a break and a chance to re-unite with the dog. Sounds like she wants to make the effort. That's more than I can say for many who seek advice and get it. Often when it involves effort they simply chuck the advice out the window. So rather than bludgeon this girl for past mistakes (of which we've all been guilty in one shape, form and degree) encourage her for stepping up to the plate to retrace her steps in regards to their relationship with this dog. ETA: Sas - this post was not directed at you .... it was really just a follow on after having responded to your post. I never suggested to teach anything over the net. I'm sorry you mis-understood this, by me saying that I would reccomend Drive Training meant to me to get contacts on a trainer who is skilled in this area such as K9 Force. Boredom and satisfying a dogs drive come together in some regards. Yes, indeed there are many other factors/issues at play here that have been pointed out and at a great benefit to the OP who may have not been aware and by seeing a trainer would be the next logical step. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Erny Posted January 27, 2007 Share Posted January 27, 2007 I never suggested to teach anything over the net. I'm sorry you mis-understood this ....... Didn't misunderstand. Just explaining why direct reference to it wasn't given. Referral to Steve (K9 Force) already made earlier and taken on board by the OP. I know he'd cover drive training. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Muttly Posted January 27, 2007 Share Posted January 27, 2007 If the OP engages training and a behaviourist big kudos and absolute best wishes to her. Sometimes some of the best outcomes for the dog and family is rehoming, and I understand aside from anything else that there is a lot going on in the family and resources are going to be extrememly stretched and there is possibly a large amount of work to do with this dog. She shouldn't be shamed into managing a mis-match especially where that may be unrealistic. There is a suggestion of a lack of bonding, though of course that could be frustration. Don't think it is black and white and she'll know what to do herself. I think it is great that people have given her referral information. I am noting that aside from the breeder there is also some small degree of breed specific rescue as well if help in rehoming is needed. This is a dog that would present very poorly in a pound. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Muttly Posted January 27, 2007 Share Posted January 27, 2007 good referral Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
persephone Posted January 27, 2007 Share Posted January 27, 2007 well done to BullyGirl for sticking with this enquiry, and taking positive steps to resolve the dilemma. !! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
tarope Posted January 28, 2007 Share Posted January 28, 2007 Bullygirl, for help you might try the German Shepherd Dog League Secretary on 02-9970 8727, for advice. I'm sure something can be done to help you, good luck. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nekhbet Posted January 28, 2007 Share Posted January 28, 2007 I'm not having a go at all. I'm being honest so shoot me. I just worry with a toddler already in the family, another baby being born soon, shift worker parents and a dog that will require MORE time, effort, socialisation adn training. I see mental breakdown. The baby will have to come first. I'm not a complete idiot a new baby takes precedence over a dog BUT this is not fair on a young GSD. I think its better to rehome this dog and when the kids are older get another dog when you have more time to dedicate to a dog. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cassie Posted January 28, 2007 Share Posted January 28, 2007 Just another thought, I don't think this has been brought up yet... Bullygirl, what do you feed him? Some friends of mine at training had a WAAAY out of control GSD (sounds like he may have been related to yours! ;) ) who was just so agitated and jumpy and hyper all the time. Our trainer asked what they were feeding him, and I can't remember EXACTLY what brand it was, but it was a cheap supermarket brand, bursting with additives and preservatives and other nasties. He suggested they change his diet to a super premium kibble, and without a word of a lie, he was at least 50% better in a few weeks time. I understand you live in a rural area, but you could possibly look at getting some super premium food delivered if there is none anywhere near you. Just a suggestion, I wish you luck with him! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Muttly Posted January 28, 2007 Share Posted January 28, 2007 Diet is a good point. A behaviourist I have worked with has also suggested reducing protein and having mostly carbs - slows them down a bit, like we do after a big fat pizza. High protein primes them. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
gusgem Posted January 28, 2007 Share Posted January 28, 2007 I'll second that diet related coment! it really does make a difference Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jeff Jones Posted January 28, 2007 Share Posted January 28, 2007 this sounds like my type of pooch ;) , if you dont want him ill take him go see K9 Force as others have suggested he will have your pooch doing the washing up and mowing the lawn in no time ;) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Piximatosis Posted January 28, 2007 Share Posted January 28, 2007 Take heart BG, if indeed you are still reading. Not everyone is born knowing everything there is to know about dogs... I struggled HARD with my GSD, but I was also very lucky in that I had knowledgable friends who helped me out KINDLY when I needed it and gave advice without making me feel like an incompetant loser (which I probably was but feeling like one wouldn't have helped my confidence any ). My bond with my girl is ten times stronger for all that we struggled through during those months, because in the end we HAVE come out on top. If you do go out to see K9 Force or another behaviourist/trainer, I'm sure it will be worth the time and the money. You'll also feel better within yourself because there's a certain satisfaction to be had when you conquer what seemed to be an insurmountable problem ;) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
2tollers Posted January 28, 2007 Share Posted January 28, 2007 BG - It would be worth sending an email to K9 just to ask if he's going to be anywhere near you at some time. He recently visited western Vic and I know he's been to a couple of other rural areas. I hope you can get some help soon. Let us know how you go. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Steve K9Pro Posted January 29, 2007 Share Posted January 29, 2007 K9: Thanks for all the kind words guys.. BG is you contact me we can organise everything from the training to accomodation. I am sure we can make your life a whole lot easier... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Arya Posted January 29, 2007 Share Posted January 29, 2007 BG, I think lots of comments have been made here for you to sort through and choose what you can use to help you so I won't add much except to say that I would be heading to K9 if I had to crawl there if I were you :thumbsup: However, I have GSD bitch who wasn't causing as much trouble as your boy but geez she was trouble initially and what a handful she was!!! She has just turned three and stick with it and stay positive and pro-active because she went from being the most difficult dog - no make that the most difficult animal I've ever owned and I've owned and worked with all sorts of animals all my life - to the absolute most maginficent animal I've ever had the privelege to be around once I found the right way to deal with her, with help. STICK WITH IT!!! Try not to get too upset, or feel too guilty, or take offence at any of the things said. Take em on board, work out what to do next, learn to love him again as you learn to understand him better and GOOD LUCK!!! And by the way, for all the work they are I doubt I'll ever get a different type of dog again after owning a GSD - unless it's maybe a Mal :D Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nekhbet Posted January 29, 2007 Share Posted January 29, 2007 mal as in malinois ... Arya you masochist you ... Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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