I may have done something not entirely reasonable. Help and advice appreciated

[MiJodsR2BlinkinTite]

I would heartily second the advice given above re. having a skilled trainer/behaviourist to assist; but make sure it is someone who works on the "reward the behaviour you want" rather than someone who is perhaps a bit more of the Barbara Woodhouse (sterner) mindset. This little dog sounds like he is thoroughly mixed-up and confused, and has obviously received mixed messages up till now, so the support of a good behaviourist is what I would strongly recommend.

Please note I am no expert: so please bear this in mind with what I am about to say - but with my little dachshund (hyper-active, but doesn't bite) I take him to a regular training class, and we've found that scent-work is something which has been hugely beneficial to him. It's fun (or should be), engages him, and it gives him a "dopamine" thrill (my trainer's way of explaining it) which is excellent for settling him. I throw this into the mix as it might be something you could utilise. He also enjoys agility - again something that gives a dog external stimulus, activity, and fulfilment.

 

[Titchy Reindeer]

I would heartily second the advice given above re. having a skilled trainer/behaviourist to assist; but make sure it is someone who works on the "reward the behaviour you want" rather than someone who is perhaps a bit more of the Barbara Woodhouse (sterner) mindset. This little dog sounds like he is thoroughly mixed-up and confused, and has obviously received mixed messages up till now, so the support of a good behaviourist is what I would strongly recommend.

Please note I am no expert: so please bear this in mind with what I am about to say - but with my little dachshund (hyper-active, but doesn't bite) I take him to a regular training class, and we've found that scent-work is something which has been hugely beneficial to him. It's fun (or should be), engages him, and it gives him a "dopamine" thrill (my trainer's way of explaining it) which is excellent for settling him. I throw this into the mix as it might be something you could utilise. He also enjoys agility - again something that gives a dog external stimulus, activity, and fulfilment.

Thank you for your advice. Skilled behaviourists are few and far between around here, the one I used for Monster never returned from maternity leave.

I am using an online course designed specifically for reactive / excited / nervous dogs by someone who is very experienced with such dogs, uses positive reinforcement only and has had great results with her students. I was a researcher in animal behaviour, so have a good deal of the theory covered and I'm also a volunteer dog trainer at the dog club (I know this doesn't necessarily mean much) where I can ask for advice from more experienced dog trainers.

T's not quite ready for organised activities yet. He joined his first dog class with me last week and will be going again after the new year. He needs to be settled in his environment and confident in me first so that activities benefit rather than overwhelm him. He loves a good game of tug and a rabbit ear to chew at home though.