Bad behaved Boston?

Question

I have a 3 yr old Boston Terrier. He's the cutest thing in the world but he hates EVERYTHING. I bought him from a pet store (I know, shame on me) But it wasn't your traditional caged-up type place. All the dogs are kept in a huge room to socialize and what not. In the store he lived with tons of other dogs even 2 cats. After I buy him he decideds he HATES every other living thing. He has attacked my cats a few times, he attacked my neighbors dog. I can't even SEE another animal outside (even a bird or squirell go by) without going APE! And the worst part is if i tug on the leash and I'm like "OK, let's go", he will displace his aggression and try to attack me!
I have no idea what to do. Inside my house, he's the best EVER. He has no aggress towards toys, or food.. NOTHING!

**Also- He is 3 NOW, not when I bought him! He was only 3 months old when I bought him. Also I have sought professional help. I went to a certified Behavoiral Specialst that works at the Humane Society. Even after a bunch of $60/hr classes it didn't help. So I'm asking people who have personal experience!

Answer 1

Oh, that's horrible! That poor little Bossie. And poor you! That's why you can't trust places like that. You couldn't ask the store owners what his parents were like, or see what his environment was like before he landed in that "clean and happy" store. You have no way to contact the breeder to ask them if this there might be a reason for this...

If he came from a puppy-mill, or through a broker *from* a puppy-mill, chances are that he witnessed a lot of fights and/or aggression between other dogs and animals. And possibly saw other dogs being mistreated by people as well.

All of that aside, since he is yours now, and I know how they are, is that you need to recondition him. Oy, that's a lot of work. I would strongly suggest getting professional help with him. They have high energy, sharp minds, short attention spans, and very strong jaws... And on top of all of that, they can be so stubborn! It is imperative that you break this behavior pattern as quickly as possible before it becomes too ingrained in his personality...

There is a wealth of information of the internet, though I don't surf much myself. You will also find a lot of good reading in book stores on how to train your dog and stop bad habits. Many vets offer (or can suggest) training programs that will also socialize your dog with others in a safe atmosphere.

Others will be along with tips, I'm sure. This is not normal behavior for a Boston, I will say that. With love and patience, though, I am confident that you can turn him around! Good luck to you!

Edit: Well, that makes things even more difficult, doesn't it? I guess you would have to try a different training program. I have known many, many Bostons and I have never seen one behave as yours has been, so I can't give you more specific advice. I do have one male that will charge the fence at other dogs, but that is all. If he meets up with them on the other side, he's friendly with them. None of the Bostons have ever been socially aggressive or mean-natured, and that counts dogs from other breeders, other homes, history of my family's dogs, etc.

Since he's been doing this for a few years now, you have a long, hard road ahead of you trying to break him of it... Again, good luck!

Answer 2

First of all, is he neutered yet? That might help. Second, I would seek professional help, like a professional dog trainer. Enroll him in an obedience class or get private training. This dog has issues, possibly from living in a PET STORE at the age of 3!! Be patient---he's had a lot of changes in his life and it may just take time. But DO take the time to find a good, reputable trainer or even doggy shrink!!

Answer 3

i'm no longer aggravating about your Pit. I easily have one and that i had a Boston who would get on good of the Pit and he or she only appeared like she become eating him up at the same time as they were playing. With my experience Boston's and Pits get alongside only effective. The Boston only has to target to make the Pit imagine they're higher than they're..Haha...My Boston taught my Pit allot. My Boston died in October, yet only wondering decrease back now how they were given alongside is so cool. thus far as a pug, I easily do not have any clue by no skill owned one.

Answer 4

Difficult one. All terriers are very lively and are always on the go with boundless energy and are usually found ferretting about under bushes looking for something to chase and nip. Its their nature. Maybe you got the wrong dog, for a house dog.

Answer 5

some dogs get into a place and like it so they by nature protect that area to go outside may be fear factor so does rebell. try to take out often close to home then area will become familliar

Answer 6

Obedience school or a visit to a dog behaviorist are probably worthwhile. Also, is he neutered?

Answer 7

buy one of those collars that shocks him when u push a button on the remote and everytime he misbehaves shock him, eventually he'll learn that if he doesnt want the pain then he shouldnt do that.

Answer 8

you need to send him to goggie school or get rid of him