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- Apr 17, 2006
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Let me start out by saying that I know that this is 100% my problem. The problem isn't Gimmick at all. But, right at the moment, I'm ready to send him packing. I would never do it, but everything he does irritates the crap out of me.
He is now 11 months old, and I got him at 16 weeks. He came from a byb, and then went to a home that did no socializing, so I knew it would be an uphill battle with him. I've done everything I should have, and continue to work with him daily.
But it doesn't seem to be doing much. I don't care if he's friendly with strangers, but he acts like they're all going to kill him, which makes taking him places very difficult.
One of he reasons I wanted to start with an 8wk old puppy and go to a good breeder was to avoid having an overly fearful dog. I already have Gambit in that niche, and I was hoping for a dog that could do more. I hate to say it, but I think I should have just stuck with that plan.
I think that he would have had a very soft and timid temperament no matter what, which was compounded by his lack of early socializing.
I'm just frustrated with him, which is not what he needs. And I should also say that he loves me more then anything, and I never slack on cuddles and training.
What can I do to help us get out of this rut? I know that I need to let go of what I wanted, and love the dog I have, but it's so hard right now. I feel like the worst dog owner in the world, not only for these feelings, but because I can't seem to help him. Literally, tears are welling up in my eyes as I type this.
It's like a delayed case of the puppy blues. Please, someone, anyone, give me some suggestions for dealing with these feelings.
He is now 11 months old, and I got him at 16 weeks. He came from a byb, and then went to a home that did no socializing, so I knew it would be an uphill battle with him. I've done everything I should have, and continue to work with him daily.
But it doesn't seem to be doing much. I don't care if he's friendly with strangers, but he acts like they're all going to kill him, which makes taking him places very difficult.
One of he reasons I wanted to start with an 8wk old puppy and go to a good breeder was to avoid having an overly fearful dog. I already have Gambit in that niche, and I was hoping for a dog that could do more. I hate to say it, but I think I should have just stuck with that plan.
I think that he would have had a very soft and timid temperament no matter what, which was compounded by his lack of early socializing.
I'm just frustrated with him, which is not what he needs. And I should also say that he loves me more then anything, and I never slack on cuddles and training.
What can I do to help us get out of this rut? I know that I need to let go of what I wanted, and love the dog I have, but it's so hard right now. I feel like the worst dog owner in the world, not only for these feelings, but because I can't seem to help him. Literally, tears are welling up in my eyes as I type this.
It's like a delayed case of the puppy blues. Please, someone, anyone, give me some suggestions for dealing with these feelings.