Instant aggression

[BobHoy]

I am new to the course, I am excited to get started and see the results Lucy needs. I have a miniture Schnauzer female that has aggression issues due to no fault of her own. I am 76 a Vietnam vet with issues. I would like to have Lucy as a support dog. I have hired a couple dog trainers, but Lucy still exhibits her aggression. I have been told by both trainers that it is me, not her. This course sounds like we will both be learning from one another. Responses will be greatly appreciated.

[Adrienne Farricelli]

Hi Bob,

Welcome to the forums and thank you for your service. 

Aggression cases are not easy to tackle, especially when they have been established for some time. Depending on what is going on, they often require in person-coaching for safety and correct implementation of behavior modification. I am sorry to hear the trainers weren't able to help you. 

To better understand your situation, exactly what in exact contexts or circumstances is she showing signs of aggression? 

Please define the aggressive behavior you are seeing (barking, growling, snapping, biting?)

Has she ever bitten? If so, has she broken skin? 

How old is your dog?

For how long has she been exhibiting the problem behavior?

What type of interventions have you tried with the help of the trainers so far?

Thank you,

I look forward to your responses. 

Best,

Adrienne 

 

[JMFS]

Thank you for your service.  ❤  My dad is a veteran of the Marines, turning 82 this year.

Did the trainers try to help you work through whatever was "you, not her?"  Trainers who are worth their salt aren't likely to dismiss people so quickly, which is why I ask.  Not all trainers are created equal, for sure.

Without asking you to disclose anything you're not comfortable sharing, are their specifics you could give?  E.g., my dad's hands are starting to shake badly, and that can make dogs nervous when he's attempting to give them treats.  He has little feeling in his hands, so he sometimes pets too rough for my brother's smaller dogs.

What service(s) are you wanting her to help you with? 

If I've learned anything through my time here, it's that I'm just as much in training as the dogs are!  Maybe more so me than them . . ..