Help with a standoffish, neurotic, aggressive terrier?

Nasty-tempered terriers are a nightmare. Since this isn't your dog, the main thing to do is protect yourself. Resign yourself to clean his messes and don't bother with him, or.... this won't be popular. Back him into a corner, throw a heavy towel over him and gently pick him up and plunk him outdoors. Same method to bring him back in.

If it were me, I would meet his needs and make sure he is fed, watered and as clean as I could make him without laying a hand on this dog. And tell the owners you won't care for this demon anymore.

One more thing, you may be able to food-lure him to get him outside and inside, but you need to protect yourself from the biting.

(I know it isn't funny, but can anyone else see Kaiialyne going after a Yorkie wearing oven mitts up to her elbows.)

Well it's not your responsibility to train that persons dog. I would say try to correct the behaviour now, and when the owner comes to pick him up explain to her what has happened. Show her/him your wounds, and that their dogs behaviour is unacceptable. I would also state that if they don't fix their dogs aggressive behaviour that you will not dog sit their dog ever again.

I know its harsh, but it's true. They shouldn't leave their aggressive dog for someone else to deal with. You don't want him to cause harm to any of the other dogs. Just in case he does than your going to have to explain to their owner what happened. This dog causes harm to you, and possibly the other dogs.

I would attach a smooth nylon line to a buckle collar and let him drag it around the house. Make it as long as you need to be able to take the end of it without having to chase the dog.

Put a long leash on him and then ignore his presence completely. Do not acknowledge his existence other than to put a bowl of food down at meal time or to drag him outside. Have very strong words with his owners for their willful failure to let you know exactly what you were getting into. This is very irresponsible of them.

Get a slip lead (or make one by pulling the end of the leash through the loop handle), corner him, drop it over his head, pull it tight and take him wherever you need him to go.

That way your hands are nowhere near his mouth.

One of the most vicious dogs I ever worked with was about eight pounds. :o)

If he charges you and bites you, keep something between you and him when you are catching him.

love and affection.

he had a bad childhood.

thick gloves.