misst
Well-Known Member
As title. I have been as blunt but kind as I can. I have said that I feel she is nervous and missing the kids/routine and not socialising is making things worse. I have offered to show her this thread. I have put the argument forward about "what if she gets cornered and actually bites someone".
Friend is in total denial.
She thinks I am being overly concerned and that the dog is loved and happy...
I don't know what else to do as I am sorry for her situation which was not her choice but is now her responsiblity. I think in a way she would be glad if one of the boys took the dog off her hands - but that is not going to happen. I offered to help findng training classes but she is not bothered about them (she works and is busy), the dog knows basic "sit" "stay" commands and she feels this is adequate. I cannot get her to understand it is behavour training the dog needs not "tricks".
On the plus side,she has got a new (male) dog walker who seems to be improving the on lead behavour and has suggested walking in a group with a couple of his other clients (and him) at weekends to socialise her. I am wondering if he is trying to introduce some training quietly. He has also told her to shut the dog in the kitchen when people come as she is uncomfortable around strangers. He seems to like the dog and is wanting to help. He only started about 3 weeks ago and walks her twice a week when friend is working.
Her previous dog walker was a lady who stopped walking her as she found her too difficult - friend felt this was the dog walkers fault!
Fingers crossed the new man is going to go above and beyond a bit and make a difference!
Thanks for all the suggestions and help as always. I haven't lost a friend and perhaps things will improve for the dog.
Friend is in total denial.
She thinks I am being overly concerned and that the dog is loved and happy...
I don't know what else to do as I am sorry for her situation which was not her choice but is now her responsiblity. I think in a way she would be glad if one of the boys took the dog off her hands - but that is not going to happen. I offered to help findng training classes but she is not bothered about them (she works and is busy), the dog knows basic "sit" "stay" commands and she feels this is adequate. I cannot get her to understand it is behavour training the dog needs not "tricks".
On the plus side,she has got a new (male) dog walker who seems to be improving the on lead behavour and has suggested walking in a group with a couple of his other clients (and him) at weekends to socialise her. I am wondering if he is trying to introduce some training quietly. He has also told her to shut the dog in the kitchen when people come as she is uncomfortable around strangers. He seems to like the dog and is wanting to help. He only started about 3 weeks ago and walks her twice a week when friend is working.
Her previous dog walker was a lady who stopped walking her as she found her too difficult - friend felt this was the dog walkers fault!
Fingers crossed the new man is going to go above and beyond a bit and make a difference!
Thanks for all the suggestions and help as always. I haven't lost a friend and perhaps things will improve for the dog.
