Need opinion on rescued dog

[Aquattro]

For the immediate issue, high value treats tossed onto the deck. Lots of love, listen to the dog. She probably has things to say, your job is to listen and hear her out. Build respect, with it comes trust. 2 months can't undo 2 years. Patience is the key.

[andestang]

For being a high energy breed what exercise routine have you started with her? I imagine with her recent past she probably didn't get what she really needed along with a proper diet. I believe a dog that is in proper physical condition will be a lot more stable mentally and behave like the breed they are.

[Powertec]

Originally Posted by andestang

For being a high energy breed what exercise routine have you started with her? I imagine with her recent past she probably didn't get what she really needed along with a proper diet. I believe a dog that is in proper physical condition will be a lot more stable mentally and behave like the breed they are.

We started with long walks etc at the begginning and then she went into heat. And it was the longest heat i have ever experienced
And i wanted to make sure that there was no chance that she would ever have to endure another litter.
So now that we are almost to the safe point we will be going back to daily walks etc...She has no idea what a ball is and has no interest in one. She doesn't seem to have a clue what toys are...
She makes me so sad They just sucked everything out of her. I know i can get her back i am just wanting to make sure i do it the right way and not wrong to push her more into herself.

[Aquattro]

My pitty X was like that, not even aware of people when I got her at 8 months. she'd been in the SPCA for 4 months, banging her head on a concrete wall. I almost thought she was deaf because there was no acknowledgement from her when I spoke to her. No obedience, nothing. Now, a year and a bit later, she's the greatest dog. She plays with toys, tugs on a rope, fetches, etc.
If food doesn't work, you need to figure out what is high value to her. I'd try different foods first, greasy chicken, fried liver, etc. Maybe borrow a neighbours cat and put it on the deck (just kidding).
My border collie was weird like that for a while. We run around th elake a lot, and cross a few small bridges. One day, he gets to a bridge, and skids to a halt. There was no way he was crossing the bridge, so I had to go back and carry him. Maybe carry yours onto the deck, don't put her down unless she's relaxed. You have an exciting challenge, you'll both be happy when you figure out the puzzle

[Chaloupa]

I wouldn't go with any greasy food treats ... as that can cause pancreatitis...however some tasty snacks for dogs from the local pet shop are a good thing...and ask for the strongest smelling, tastiest ones they carry. Reward by food and encouragement/love, if you can find something she will eat may be the thing for her right now. It's a tough task you've taken on...but good for you for making that choice!

[Aquattro]

Originally Posted by Chaloupa

I wouldn't go with any greasy food treats ... as that can cause pancreatitis

I don't think 1/2 cup of greasy chicken is going to cause health concerns
If it helps a one time challenge, use what works. Yes, wholesome doggie treats ae probably better, but greasy chicken is always a better bribe! You can skip the skin, or heck, use a piece of roast pork, but something real and raw, not pressed into doggie treats.
This is not a recommendation to feed bad food, it's bribery to get a dog to overcome something. For me, a high value reward is a tuggie, my guy loves to tug and forgets what he's being stubborn about. Again, use any tool that gets the task done.

[Chaloupa]

Actually all it takes is a very small amount to flare up a pancreas.......but that's not what this discussion is all about.....if you choose to use meats as a treat, boiled is always better as it does remove the fat from the meat that you are feeding.....you are already feeding a natural diet so are quite concerned on what goes into her. Good luck!

[traco]

Wow, good for you to take her into your home and love her.

And who figured we'd get support in other parts of our lives not involving fish, heh? lol And I say that in a complimentary way, not in a negative way. Good luck with her and, yes please, to the pics when you get a chance.

[andestang]

Originally Posted by Powertec

We started with long walks etc at the begginning and then she went into heat. And it was the longest heat i have ever experienced
And i wanted to make sure that there was no chance that she would ever have to endure another litter.
So now that we are almost to the safe point we will be going back to daily walks etc...She has no idea what a ball is and has no interest in one. She doesn't seem to have a clue what toys are...
She makes me so sad They just sucked everything out of her. I know i can get her back i am just wanting to make sure i do it the right way and not wrong to push her more into herself.

You may have to go with more than walking, if she is good on a leash beside a bike would be better or even if she is a follower behind a vehicle on a nice quite road. A way to a dogs appetite is through high activity. It may take a few days, but it will come. Stay away from human type foods or you will create another problem with eating habits. As far as playing she will probably have to learn from other dogs. Get her involved with other playful/active non-agressive dogs.

[Diana]

I think also you have to forget (in a sense) what happened to her. If you feel sorry for her or baby her in any way because of her previous hardships she will learn to feed off that energy (thank you Cesar Millan!). Do not take her out onto the deck with the thought that she is going to go into 'the red zone'. Take her out like you would any normal dog.... it probably wont work the first time... but persist and she will learn that you are not reacting to her behavior.

Cooked chicken breast is a great treat, fried in a little oil or pam, or boiled, and it is hard for a dog to resist! I cook chicken breast medium-rare for the doggies, and they get raw red meats. Superstore carries an organic brand of dried chicken treats that my dogs just LOVE. It is just pure dried chicken cut into strips. There is also a stress reducing one with lavender and hops (dont ask me if it works or not!).

Lots of reassurance when she does things right, even when she does something so simple like take a step towards the deck.


Good luck with your new family member!