Starting out with a success story. I have a 10 yo GSD/mountain dog mix who was rescued (Rufus, from the home page). He developed a severe fear agression, probably from my inexperience and turmoil at the time in my personal life. Anyway, I was very concerned with his temperament, as he would lunge and/or bark at people (and objects) without direct provocation.....just what he determined to be provocation.
I spent about 6 months walking him through pet stores and anywhere else I could think of, and consistently working his obedience commands while telling people not to pet him as he was "training". This exercise built up his confidence enough and acclimated him to different environments to where he felt no threat from strangers. I was starting to be discouraged when he walked up to someone to sniff him and get a scratch!!
Now, I do not want you to think this will work with every dog/handler combination. I was vigilant on watching his body language-I certainly did not want him to hurt anyone. I still am very aware of his state-he has shown aggression, but only when warranted and not overly so. But I do not trust him completly, and as a responsible dog owner watch him very carefully.
Good luck to you all, and I look forward to hearing your stories, and helping where I can!
Erica
Posted by jumpinjacs
at 9:54 PM CDT
