Today I had to do something that made me physically ill. And rather scared.
Our dogs, Austin and Jax, sometimes get a little snippy with each other. They both are very dominant and Jax tends to start fights. And by fights I mean if you where walking down the street and heard/saw what was happening between our dogs you would think they were going to kill each other. We can always break them up and they spend some alone time afterwards.
But this morning. This morning was terribly horrid. The dogs had both finished their breakfast and were standing in the kitchen. Austin started walking towards his bowl and Jax lost it. I don't know what set him off, but man. I could not pry them apart (not afraid of them bitting me, I can stick my hand in between them and they completely ignore me, but what about a child?) so I had to kick Jax. This is something I am NOT proud of, but felt it had to be done. I don't know if he would have caused Austin any harm (they never hurt each other, just scare the crap out of us), but I could not let it continue.
I think it's time we had some serious training. Mr. Sparky and I talked about the possiblity of having to give the dogs up. I would in a heart beat if it was the only thing standing between us and a child. It would break my heart - I love those dogs. They are fun and loving and adorable. But this is not a safe environment. Especially since we don't really know what sets Jax off. He wasnt' like this when we first got him, it only started happening in the fall. I don't know if it is something that happened between him or Austin, if it is a trait of the breed (Catahoula Hound - don't think that is the case though), or it's just his personality.
What would you do? We obviously don't have the money for full on training classes, and our vet isn't much help. We asked her about it and she said he just needs training. She never addressed the behavior, it was almost an afterthought for her. I don't know. I'm torn. I'm ashamed, although I do know I did what I had to to protect Austin from being hurt and it is not something that EVER happens in our house. They get swatted on the nose when doing something wrong, mostly they get squirted with the dreaded water bottle, but NO abuse. EVER. Ugh. It makes me sick.
2 comments:
Ohhh... I am so sorry. My sister went through the same thing a few years ago, except her situation was a little more extreme. Her dog was so sweet and loving but hated all men, and she would attack and bite men. My sis finally had to put her to sleep. Not saying you should do that, though! Maybe with training your pooch will get better! Have you ever seen The Dog Whisperer? He does amazing things with aggressive dogs. I totally think there is hope for your dog. Is he neutered?
hi there, there is plenty of info online for you to help train your dogs.
it just takes time and patience, maybe feeding them at diff. times and putting the bowls up when they are finished, maybe putting one in another room while you feed the other.
I'm sorry you kicked them, but it probably was the right thing to do at the time. its scary to think what would happen if there was a kid around.
i dont think they are anywhere near bad enough to put down or give up yet.
even in animals, as well as humans, there is an underlying reason why (they are being bad) this is happening, and its our job as the owner to figure it out.hope that helps.
Kristina
Post a Comment