All you dog trainers out there.....?

Question

I wanted to ask someone if they knew what to do in this situation. I know someone who has a dog. He is a one year old mix breed. He is very big and very friendly. I have an oppurtuity to have this dog. But the problem is that he has been kept in a kennel for 90% of his life. I think he might be going crazy. When let out he runs around likes to jump on people (I know this is to expected.) My question is, do you think there is a chance I can save him and make him "normal" again? Or is there no hope? People with special knowledge of experiences with this are greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance!!!

Answer 1

I just rescued an 86 pound German shepherd who spent most of his life locked in a 5x10 laundry room. When I brought him home at the beginning of June, he wanted nothing more than to get out and run. The minute he saw the chance, he'd try to sneak out the door and wouldn't come when called. He also wanted to jump on people, just because he was so attention-starved.

In one month's time (admittedly, it's been a long, rough month), he comes when he's called and doesn't try to sneak out the door. He may still try to jump on people, but he'll lay down and leave them alone when told to. The key has been a lot of consistency, obedience work, and pure old-fashioned love and attention.

If the animal you're interested in hasn't gone mean or squirrely after spending all that time locked up, then the odds are good that he'll respond to the same kind of discipline and affection. Get him into obedience classes right away, learn how to train him, and then be consistent. But most of all, pet him and pay attention to him -- treat him like a valued member of the family instead.

Good luck. . .I think you'll be rewarded with a great dog once the rough settling-in time is over! I sure have been.

Answer 2

there is almost always hope in dogs, no matter the sitation. what i recommend to do is to start him on walks.......in a fenced-in yard.....so he cannot get away, work with him until he is good on a leash. yu will also need to work on basic obedience such as sit, stay, lay down etc. when he attempts to jump turn all the way around until your back is facing him. keep doing this until he settles down. then have friends (both that he knows and doesn't know) and practice this exerise. also, you could look up tips from victoria stillwell, my inspiration. she is an amazing dog trainer who has a few books. please take this dog from his horrible situation and work with him until he is obedient. you could also take him to a trainer that will work one on one with you and the dog. i hope everything works out. good luck.

Answer 3

Of course there is hope.This poor dog needs to get out and get exercise, socilaization and training.
Get him enrolled in obedience classes and give him plenty of play and exercise.