Old Speckled Hen Posted February 21, 2011 Share Posted February 21, 2011 A few thoughts. She is being territorial. People walking past your garden are reinforcing your doggie's behaviour. She runs like a mad thing, barking and they go away. Is there any way you can have your neighbour walk past at a pre arranged time? You could stand in your garden with her on a lead and as soon as the other dog comes into your view(not your dog's), take her out of the garden on a short lead and let your neighbour walk round your garden slowly with his dog( NOT letting him pee to mark). Keep her under close control and let her see what's happening. Feed her away from where you eat, don't let her up on the furniture and most importantly YOU should be the one to initiate contact. If she has been left at home, don't react when she barks and wags a tail to say hello when you come in. No eye contact. Put your shopping down and make a cuppa. When she has discovered that you are not talking to her and she settles down, bored, in her bed. Then squat down and give her a cuddle. Dog's would like to be at the top of the pack but they are happy wherever they do end up as long as it's consistent. Best of luck Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
The Dogmother Posted February 21, 2011 Share Posted February 21, 2011 I agree with OSH, especially that last part of her post. If a dog is at all confused about who is 'top' in your relationship, then they will feel insecure and stressed, which can manifest itself in a form of aggression or bad behaviour. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rhapsody Posted February 21, 2011 Share Posted February 21, 2011 Thats why I asked if she sees you as the Alpha of the relationship. If she doesnt, then she feels she has to take care of and guard you. It can also lead to dominant behaviours towards those she sees as her subordinates. Most dogs dont want to be Alpha, they feel more comfortable as one of the pack as being Alpha is hard work! Seems like there are lots of issues to be addressed NCG, but personally I stand by what I said to begin with, a reintroduction of exercise and socialisation are your easiest (and free!) places to start. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
newcountrygirl Posted February 24, 2011 Author Share Posted February 24, 2011 I have had a long discussion with a doggy trainer today. Me and my OH are going to see him (and Ziggy) on Monday - so that he can assess her and us!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chucky Mama Posted February 25, 2011 Share Posted February 25, 2011 Great news, well done for getting the ball rolling Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
newcountrygirl Posted March 2, 2011 Author Share Posted March 2, 2011 Ziggy is going for her assessment and some 1-1 training tomorrow for the first time. I am quite excited and looking forward to it but also a bit aprehensive cos i know the trainer is going to say her bad habits are my fault. It may be true - but it's still hard - when you love them not to give in sometimes. Watch this space - I'll let you know how we get on..... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chucky Mama Posted March 2, 2011 Share Posted March 2, 2011 Well done you for getting on and doing something positive to deal with this situation. So many people have problem dogs and can't be bothered to spend the necessary time (and sometimes money) to sort things out. Good luck Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
newcountrygirl Posted March 3, 2011 Author Share Posted March 3, 2011 Well Ziggy had her first training today. The guy was really thorough and spent a lot of time questioning me and hubby. He took Ziggy off into the paddock on a long training lead and had her walking to heel and sitting within 10 minutes. At first i could hardly bear to watch - her tail was down between her legs and her ears were down and she kept looking at us as if to say - well i turned up - can i go now? By the end - she was trotting along happily though. When she came home she was quite subdued all day - but instead of climbing on the sofa she stayed down when i told her - so hopefully we are getting off on the right foot. Either that or she thinks if she behaves for a bit we will forget and wont make her go back again. We shall see............... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chucky Mama Posted March 3, 2011 Share Posted March 3, 2011 Be strong, don't let those puppy dog eyes do their magic on you. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
newcountrygirl Posted March 3, 2011 Author Share Posted March 3, 2011 Trying really hard. She has been really good all day - and if she tried anything i just said no firmly and she stopped. So proud of her. Wonder if it works with chickens? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
