Chuck

[sea4th]

Some of this is speculation on my part. Chuck is about 2-3 yrs. old. He's been with us for a few days now, since Thursday. At first Donna thought he might have some hearing problems because he was totally unresponsive to voice, but would look up at sharp sounds like clapping or slapping your hand against the side of your leg. We weren't sure because everything was totally new to him and the need to check out his new digs over rode the need to respond to Donna. It didn't take too long for him to come around to voices and so he now happily responds to Donna's and other's voices.

Entering the house appeared to be something totally new for him. At first he balked, but once inside, it was almost as though he couldn't believe his luck and settled in -- with some marking issues, but that's being worked with.

 

Chuck is extremely eager to please, to learn. He picked up "sit" very quickly and loves to sit when asked.

 

We've guessed at a possible background based on the above behavior, that this dog was not exactly a clean slate, but one who did not have much meaningful human interaction, and he was more than likely an outside dog. Maybe he was never taught to respond to a human voice and that's why he blew off any vocal attempts to get his attention?

 

Chuck almost seems greatful for the interaction with someone, very happy that he can use his mind, someone is asking him to think, even on a very elemetary level.

 

Here is where the possible separation anxiety might be manisfesting. He needs to be with Donna. If he goes outside without him, he breaks out of the crate. Even if she goes into another room, he wants her in his sight.

 

So, now what?

[sluj]

I don't have any personal experience with SA, but I have a copy of Patricia McConnell's booklet I'll be home soon that outlines a protocol for increasing a dog's tolerance to being left alone. It might be helpful. Poor Chuck.

[Ms.DaisyDuke]

Ah, yes. SA is awesome! (sarcastic here). I currently have a foster with the same issues. I figure she was at one point owned by someone. She is perfect on leash and has NO problems with people picking up her feet to clean them...she almost offers them. Since being in foster care she has become so easily bonded with people that she's developed SA. She is in my home in hopes we can help her...she chewed through a wall in her previous foster home. That book mentioned...I'll be home soon, is a great resource as is Parenting your dog by Trish King and The power of Positive Dog training by Pat Miller (I think).

I am starting by getting Kya accustomed to being in an X-pen while we are around with no crying, this week I will also get her used to going in and out of the crate. Once she is ok with going in and out of the crate then I'll start working on closing the door and leaving etc. Some dogs don't do well in a crate, but since we have no routine to counter condition I have to start somewhere! She is also on anxiety meds right now, so hopefully they'll help while I work with her. At least read I'll be home soon if you can track down a copy of it, I would suggest something similar to what I am doing.

My only problem..this dog is possibly a rotti/chow mix and trying to get her to sit is proving more difficult than I'd hoped, especially after you're used to training a BC!

Good luck!