Need help with nervous high-energy dog, advice please?

Question

My uncle's family has a two year old "miniature" aussie. The dog came from a pet store, is still not neutered, and is very nervous and hard to control, making him unpleasant to be around. He is usually shifty-eyed, breathing rapidly, and often unresponsive to commands. He also has a barking problem especially with strangers, and dog aggression with certain larger dogs. He can also be possessive of food. Basically, he is a mess. Although I should add that he does know a fair amount of tricks, and can respond well when being obedient and calmer.

The family has kids that don't help the matter (although they know not to touch him when he has a toy or food). The household is always loud and busy, and he gets no stable routine. He doesn't get nearly enough hours of walks each day, and they live in the city, so he never gets off-leash time either. They know he needs more exercise, but walking him is so difficult because he constantly pulls, it isn't something they can prioritize on. Same goes for training. Unfortunately they tend to raise their voices around him, and at him, and a lot of rough handling ends up taking place. I have seen them raise their arms around in a threatening manner, which makes him flinch or cower away. Nothing good for his nervousness I can imagine.

Anyway, from what I can see, the problem is simply that they are not cut out for this type of dog. He needs a lot more exercise and firm, calm handling. He also needs to be neutered. If it were me, I would probably find him a new family living in a rural home. So far, anything I have been suggesting has been overlooked, maybe because I'm no expert on the matter. But maybe someone else can help. From reading this, am I right to assume everything? Am I missing anything? What can be done? Any links, tools, books, experiences? Anything will help, I really just feel bad for the little guy. His family loves him too, they really just don't know any better.

Also what kind of tools can be used to help making walks easier on him and the walker?

Shawn · Accepted Answer

You are so right.
You are describing a food-agressive, dog-aggressive dog.  At two years of age, the family would need to work individually with a trainer that would come into the home.

It sounds like they've been doing all the wrong things, and they've created a real problem.  We just put a 2 year old boxer to sleep where I work because of the same type things.  This dog finally bit the children, leaving one with a scar on her face.

It would be very hard to place a dog like this.  Maybe an Aussie Rescue group?  

Training is expensive, and it is actually for both the family and the dog.  They would have to follow through, and it doesn't sound like they will.

Perhaps ask them to see your vet?  You could call and chat with your vet ahead of time, then have them go in for an exam.  The vet can speak with them about the dog and even assign a technician to follow the case and help.  They should be able to direct the family to a great trainer in the immediate area, as well.

We recommend the gentle leader from Premier Pet (look online.)  BUT the owners MUST use it properly to avoid injury to the pet.  I have seen it work wonders when used right.  

Your friends need to have a "come to Jesus meeting" with the family.  There are certain things that simply are not allowed.  Rules for the dog have to be agreed upon and enforced every time by every family member if they are to work at all.  

If they truly love the dog, they will make the effort.  Hopefully you can get through to them before somebody is injured.

vet tech

Anonymous · Answer

Wow, buying any type of Aussie in the city is pretty bad. Aussie's love to run and have plenty of exercise. I used to live in Macedonia, and my grandma and grandpa had 2 Aussies, and they were truly wonderful. They would chase away any wild animals, they LOVED to run around for hours, and were very easy to train.

Aussie's are very intelligent and they love approval. If they choose to keep him, tell them seriously to stop using rough handling ASAP. No kind of dog responds well to that, especially if they tend to be nervous. Be calm and patient, and remember, LOTS of treats and approval. 

You are absolutely right to assume anything. Aussie's aren't very good in cities. Iet's loud, dirty, and they have no room to run and play. Honestly, if they return him to the pet store, I don't know what they would do with it, or if they can even return it for that matter. I've learned pet stores are very bad, as they treat the animals with cruelty. They are trapped in cages for days, and I'm trying to get the word out. 

They could always go to a shelter, but again, I honestly don't know what they would do with him.

Are there any parks in that area? They can train him to be off leash, get well with other dogs and people and let him loose. Bring a ball or a Frisbee, and just play with him a lot. 

Best of luck <3

Anonymous · Answer

When it comes to walking the pup, I'd recommend using the simpleLEASH.

If the dog pulls too hard, he'll receive a brief, safe stimulus that lets him know the behavior is NOT acceptable.

This should help give your uncle's family a leg up when it comes to training. If they can walk the dog with ease, it stands to reason that the dog will have less energy and will be calmer in general.

Best of luck!

ladystang · Answer

training, exercise, socialization, grooming and vet care
daily brushing, groomer 6-8 weeks
professional trainer to learn how to train,  at least 5 hours a day training and exercise
at least an hour walking and socializing

kids have to be trained how to treat and act around dogs

gentle leader, have trainer show how to fit and use

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Need help with nervous high-energy dog, advice please?

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