I have to leave the house occasionally.
November 4, 2011 12:32 PM Subscribe
My sweet, mellow German Shepherd Dog has started behaving in a way that is completely new and not good. I could really use some advice.
We adopted our German Shepherd (Leela) from the Humane Society almost three years ago. At the time they told us she was a year old, but the vet thinks she was older. That would make her at least 4 years old now. She's normally incredibly mellow and totally sweet.
She doesn't play with the kids, and she doesn't fetch. She never has. She'll chase after a Kong as long as it has peanut butter in it. Really the only time she runs is if she's playing with other dogs.
I have some health problems, so she doesn't get much exercise. We have a back yard for her to do her business in but she usually wants to come right back in when we take her out.
From the time we adopted her we would usually leave her in the yard when we were gone. A year ago we took in our neighbor's Pug and he taught her how to escape from the yard. After that we started having a problem with her damaging the wooden fencing and leaving the yard. We got a dog run for her, the kind where a coated wire is stretched between two trees and another wire is attached to her harness, giving her the run of the yard. Not a fenced in cage.
Unfortunately, neighbors complained about her barking so we had to stop leaving her outside while we were gone. Now when she needs to go out one of us takes her outside and watches her until she's ready to come in.
At that point we started leaving her shut in our bedroom when we went out. That worked out fine, she would usually just lay on her bed or sleep on our bed until we got home.
Then, about six months ago our area had a massive thunderstorm. We happened to be out of the house at the time, so Leela was in our room. She is a giant fraidy cat and hates storms. We came home to find that she had completely destroyed the carpet in front of the door. Like the poor thing was digging to get out.
After that we decided it would be best if we let her have the full run of the house while we were gone.
That's when we found out that she can't be trusted around food. We knew she would get into the garbage can, but if there is any food left below four feet she will get it and eat it. She even tries to eat canned foods! On Tuesday she got my son's Halloween candy that was on top of a console 4 feet above the ground. Before I leave to go anywhere I have to make sure that every scrap of food is put away and that the garbage and recycling cans are inaccessible. If I forget one thing I'll come home to find the packaging ripped to shreds all over the house.
Two weeks ago I finally found an off leash dog park in our area. I started taking her about three times a week, and she seemed to really love it. She followed around and played with the other dogs. There were a few "arguments" between other dogs, but she was never involved. She always seemed very excited when we got there.
I also started taking her with me as much as possible when I go out. She's good when she's with me and she loves going for rides in the car. I can't take her everywhere though, places like doctor offices and grocery stores are not appropriate places for a big ol' German Shepherd. I'd like to train her to be an assistance dog for me, but she needs a lot more work before she's at that level.
Around the same time that we started going to the dog park she started pooping in the house. Always in the same spot by my husband's desk, and always when we're out of the house.
Mr. Shoes is a really sweet guy, but he's not a dog person. She's totally my dog. This is beginning to get really stressful for my husband and he asked me to come to you guys for help. I have to say I'm not enjoying things much myself.
I'm a stay at home mom and when I'm home she is a great dog. Mellow, obedient, sweet. I just don't know how to train her to do what I want when I'm not there to enforce it.
I keep telling my husband that we need to get her a kennel, but he's afraid that 1.) she'll just see it as a punishment and 2.) her behavior will just be worse when we let her out because she's been pent up.
I've thought about getting another dog to keep her company but my husband is worried that adding another animal will just add to the stress.
Any advice would be most helpful.
We adopted our German Shepherd (Leela) from the Humane Society almost three years ago. At the time they told us she was a year old, but the vet thinks she was older. That would make her at least 4 years old now. She's normally incredibly mellow and totally sweet.
She doesn't play with the kids, and she doesn't fetch. She never has. She'll chase after a Kong as long as it has peanut butter in it. Really the only time she runs is if she's playing with other dogs.
I have some health problems, so she doesn't get much exercise. We have a back yard for her to do her business in but she usually wants to come right back in when we take her out.
From the time we adopted her we would usually leave her in the yard when we were gone. A year ago we took in our neighbor's Pug and he taught her how to escape from the yard. After that we started having a problem with her damaging the wooden fencing and leaving the yard. We got a dog run for her, the kind where a coated wire is stretched between two trees and another wire is attached to her harness, giving her the run of the yard. Not a fenced in cage.
Unfortunately, neighbors complained about her barking so we had to stop leaving her outside while we were gone. Now when she needs to go out one of us takes her outside and watches her until she's ready to come in.
At that point we started leaving her shut in our bedroom when we went out. That worked out fine, she would usually just lay on her bed or sleep on our bed until we got home.
Then, about six months ago our area had a massive thunderstorm. We happened to be out of the house at the time, so Leela was in our room. She is a giant fraidy cat and hates storms. We came home to find that she had completely destroyed the carpet in front of the door. Like the poor thing was digging to get out.
After that we decided it would be best if we let her have the full run of the house while we were gone.
That's when we found out that she can't be trusted around food. We knew she would get into the garbage can, but if there is any food left below four feet she will get it and eat it. She even tries to eat canned foods! On Tuesday she got my son's Halloween candy that was on top of a console 4 feet above the ground. Before I leave to go anywhere I have to make sure that every scrap of food is put away and that the garbage and recycling cans are inaccessible. If I forget one thing I'll come home to find the packaging ripped to shreds all over the house.
Two weeks ago I finally found an off leash dog park in our area. I started taking her about three times a week, and she seemed to really love it. She followed around and played with the other dogs. There were a few "arguments" between other dogs, but she was never involved. She always seemed very excited when we got there.
I also started taking her with me as much as possible when I go out. She's good when she's with me and she loves going for rides in the car. I can't take her everywhere though, places like doctor offices and grocery stores are not appropriate places for a big ol' German Shepherd. I'd like to train her to be an assistance dog for me, but she needs a lot more work before she's at that level.
Around the same time that we started going to the dog park she started pooping in the house. Always in the same spot by my husband's desk, and always when we're out of the house.
Mr. Shoes is a really sweet guy, but he's not a dog person. She's totally my dog. This is beginning to get really stressful for my husband and he asked me to come to you guys for help. I have to say I'm not enjoying things much myself.
I'm a stay at home mom and when I'm home she is a great dog. Mellow, obedient, sweet. I just don't know how to train her to do what I want when I'm not there to enforce it.
I keep telling my husband that we need to get her a kennel, but he's afraid that 1.) she'll just see it as a punishment and 2.) her behavior will just be worse when we let her out because she's been pent up.
I've thought about getting another dog to keep her company but my husband is worried that adding another animal will just add to the stress.
Any advice would be most helpful.
Most important thing first: Changes in potty training (ie, pooping in the house) could be signs of a medical problem. Has she been checked by a vet?
Everything else sounds really normal for a dog. They bark. They eat food that they find around. Getting a second dog won't change any of this.
Does she get walks? I think the general advice is that she should get at least an hour total a day. More is always better. Once she's crate trained and getting adequate exercise, there's no reason she shouldn't be able to spend a couple hours in her "den."
Have you taken her to postive-reinforment obedience classes? They are as much for the dog owner as for the dog (plus it's a good way to get structured dog-on-dog contact), and the trainer should have lots of advice on how to work with these issues.
posted by muddgirl at 12:50 PM on November 4, 2011
Everything else sounds really normal for a dog. They bark. They eat food that they find around. Getting a second dog won't change any of this.
Does she get walks? I think the general advice is that she should get at least an hour total a day. More is always better. Once she's crate trained and getting adequate exercise, there's no reason she shouldn't be able to spend a couple hours in her "den."
Have you taken her to postive-reinforment obedience classes? They are as much for the dog owner as for the dog (plus it's a good way to get structured dog-on-dog contact), and the trainer should have lots of advice on how to work with these issues.
posted by muddgirl at 12:50 PM on November 4, 2011
As I boil this down, you have three separate (though likely related) problems: anxiety, foraging and inappropriate elimination.
It sounds like your dog is afraid of thunderstorms, which is not at all uncommon. Short of sedation (yikes!) you could try a Thundershirt, which are generally regarded as effective and have a money-back guarantee. The downside is that you have to put it on before you leave, so predicting storms might be an issue if you don't want her wearing it every day.
Dogs often forage when left alone, but it is definitely unusual for a dog to attempt to open canned food. That she chews cans but nothing else (that you mentioned) suggests that she feels ravenous. Several metabolic conditions can cause this; thyroid is probably the most common. A trip to the vet is in order for some bloodwork, but in the meantime, store food where she can't get to it.
The inappropriate elimination could be caused by a lot of things, including a metabolic disorder like thyroid. The first thing I would try is to adjust her feeding schedule so you're certain she poops before you leave the house. Barring that, you may need to see a behaviorist.
The big gun here, of course, is a crate. Many dogs are left in crates while their owners are out. Most dogs come to see crates as their dens, and often sleep in them voluntarily at night. A crate wouldn't prevent thunderstorm anxiety (probably, unless your dog feels that much more secure in a den) but it would prevent her tearing up the house. It would also keep her out of your pantry, and it's highly unlikely she would poop in her own den.
Tired dogs are good dogs. Keeping in mind your physical limitations, do you have access to a treadmill for her? Is there somewhere you can take her swimming like a creek or lake? You should also look at obedience training and trick training to reinforce your bond with your dog.
posted by workerant at 12:51 PM on November 4, 2011 [5 favorites]
It sounds like your dog is afraid of thunderstorms, which is not at all uncommon. Short of sedation (yikes!) you could try a Thundershirt, which are generally regarded as effective and have a money-back guarantee. The downside is that you have to put it on before you leave, so predicting storms might be an issue if you don't want her wearing it every day.
Dogs often forage when left alone, but it is definitely unusual for a dog to attempt to open canned food. That she chews cans but nothing else (that you mentioned) suggests that she feels ravenous. Several metabolic conditions can cause this; thyroid is probably the most common. A trip to the vet is in order for some bloodwork, but in the meantime, store food where she can't get to it.
The inappropriate elimination could be caused by a lot of things, including a metabolic disorder like thyroid. The first thing I would try is to adjust her feeding schedule so you're certain she poops before you leave the house. Barring that, you may need to see a behaviorist.
The big gun here, of course, is a crate. Many dogs are left in crates while their owners are out. Most dogs come to see crates as their dens, and often sleep in them voluntarily at night. A crate wouldn't prevent thunderstorm anxiety (probably, unless your dog feels that much more secure in a den) but it would prevent her tearing up the house. It would also keep her out of your pantry, and it's highly unlikely she would poop in her own den.
Tired dogs are good dogs. Keeping in mind your physical limitations, do you have access to a treadmill for her? Is there somewhere you can take her swimming like a creek or lake? You should also look at obedience training and trick training to reinforce your bond with your dog.
posted by workerant at 12:51 PM on November 4, 2011 [5 favorites]
Regarding exercise when an owner isn't able: if daily walks aren't an option, what about sitting out back and having her chase and fetch her Kong there? We also play a game in the house (after we've taught the "come" command) where people sit in two different rooms and call the dog, rewarding him for racing back and forth faster and faster until it's tired out. This can be played all day, it doesn't take much energy from owners, and it reinforces the "Come" command.
Failing that, dog walkers are relatively inexpensive compared to the costs of replacing ripped up and pooped-on carpets.
posted by muddgirl at 12:56 PM on November 4, 2011
Failing that, dog walkers are relatively inexpensive compared to the costs of replacing ripped up and pooped-on carpets.
posted by muddgirl at 12:56 PM on November 4, 2011
About pooping in the same place: this is common behavior for dogs, once an area is "dirty" it's essentially available as a bathroom spot. Clean that spot excessively with bleach to ensure her powerful sense of smell doesn't detect any trace .
posted by oblio_one at 1:00 PM on November 4, 2011
posted by oblio_one at 1:00 PM on November 4, 2011
Do you have any jogger friends who might like a canine companion? In our experience, when our two big dogs get decent exercise, the naughtiness quotient goes down dramatically.
posted by bunji at 1:12 PM on November 4, 2011
posted by bunji at 1:12 PM on November 4, 2011
Response by poster: @Lesser Shrew: The arguments are between other dogs, not her. She usually isn't anywhere near the dogs that are playing rough. We were there when a 7 month old German Shepherd kept trying to play rough and my dog would bark at the big puppy every time he tried to start something. I thought it was funny, kind of like her saying "We're German Shepherds, we don't stoop to that level. Behave yourself." That's the closest she's come to being in any of the scuffles. (After he stopped the "argument" she would sniff his ears and then walk off. It was cute.)
@workerant: She only went for the canned food one time, it was the only thing down. She'd already been fed that morning. She goes for anything food related. If I leave a jar of peanut butter down she'll chew the lid off and lick out as much as she can reach. She also gets into yogurt cups the kids forget to toss out after breakfast (we're usually rushing to get them to school,) bags of bread, dirty dishes left on the counter, basically anything food related. She gets fed twice a day, 2 cups of food each time. The vet says we're feeding her well.
We do have a treadmill, but the silly thing is scared of it. I'm working on trying to get her used to it.
@muddgirl: She will go after a peanut butter filled Kong if I throw it, but then she just lays down and licks the good stuff out. She won't bring it back for me to throw again.
Your running game sounds like a good idea. I'm going to try it out.
posted by TooFewShoes at 1:17 PM on November 4, 2011
@workerant: She only went for the canned food one time, it was the only thing down. She'd already been fed that morning. She goes for anything food related. If I leave a jar of peanut butter down she'll chew the lid off and lick out as much as she can reach. She also gets into yogurt cups the kids forget to toss out after breakfast (we're usually rushing to get them to school,) bags of bread, dirty dishes left on the counter, basically anything food related. She gets fed twice a day, 2 cups of food each time. The vet says we're feeding her well.
We do have a treadmill, but the silly thing is scared of it. I'm working on trying to get her used to it.
@muddgirl: She will go after a peanut butter filled Kong if I throw it, but then she just lays down and licks the good stuff out. She won't bring it back for me to throw again.
Your running game sounds like a good idea. I'm going to try it out.
posted by TooFewShoes at 1:17 PM on November 4, 2011
First, I agree with those who say get her checked out by a vet.
Second, this sounds to me like a dog who needs WAY more stimulation than you're providing. She's bored and anxiety-ridden when you're gone. She needs decent walks every day at the bare minimum, and if you can't provide them because of your disability, you should think about hiring a dog walker. In the same vein, GSDs are really smart, and some mental stimulation could get you a long way with her. You can easily clicker-train a dog to do all kinds of stupid pet tricks, with just a few minutes of work, a few times a day. It helps the dog bond with you and wears them out mentally without too much sustained effort on your part. You might also try giving her some puzzle toys when you leave the house. We've had good luck with the Bobs-a-lot, but our dog is pretty dumb, so your's might need something more challenging. I know dogs who've done really well with the Buster Cube..
Good luck! She's a beautiful dog!
posted by juliapangolin at 1:19 PM on November 4, 2011 [1 favorite]
Second, this sounds to me like a dog who needs WAY more stimulation than you're providing. She's bored and anxiety-ridden when you're gone. She needs decent walks every day at the bare minimum, and if you can't provide them because of your disability, you should think about hiring a dog walker. In the same vein, GSDs are really smart, and some mental stimulation could get you a long way with her. You can easily clicker-train a dog to do all kinds of stupid pet tricks, with just a few minutes of work, a few times a day. It helps the dog bond with you and wears them out mentally without too much sustained effort on your part. You might also try giving her some puzzle toys when you leave the house. We've had good luck with the Bobs-a-lot, but our dog is pretty dumb, so your's might need something more challenging. I know dogs who've done really well with the Buster Cube..
Good luck! She's a beautiful dog!
posted by juliapangolin at 1:19 PM on November 4, 2011 [1 favorite]
Also, what you're describing sounds pretty normal for dog parks. I wouldn't let those kinds of little scuffles stop you from going there.
posted by juliapangolin at 1:20 PM on November 4, 2011 [1 favorite]
posted by juliapangolin at 1:20 PM on November 4, 2011 [1 favorite]
I think it might be worth trying a crate with Leela. At least get one and see how she takes to it. I have a highly anxious beagle who LOVES her crate. It gives her a safe place to hide from the many things that scare her, including thunderstorms. She will not see the crate as punishment as long as you introduce her to it at a rate she feels comfortable and as long as you NEVER use it for actual punishment (ie. throw her in there when she's done something bad).
As previously mentioned, we also have an Anxiety Wrap for my dog (similar to the ThunderShirt) and it does seem to help calm her down though it's not a magic bullet.
It sounds to me (though IANADogExpert) that Leela may be experiencing some separation anxiety. She's sweet and well behaved when you're home because, well... you're home. When you leave she become anxious and acts out - the pooping, the food stealing, etc. I would first try some Nature's Miracle (can be found at pet stores) for cleaning up the pooping spot. It helps remove odors that you and I can't smell that dogs can, which should help the issue if it's just a marking / habit behavior. However, if the behavior continues you may need to look into tactics for dealing with separation anxiety which can include things like using a crate, providing lots of stimulating activities, gradually getting the dog used to the idea of being apart from you and keeping to strict routines when leaving the house.
posted by geeky at 1:22 PM on November 4, 2011
As previously mentioned, we also have an Anxiety Wrap for my dog (similar to the ThunderShirt) and it does seem to help calm her down though it's not a magic bullet.
It sounds to me (though IANADogExpert) that Leela may be experiencing some separation anxiety. She's sweet and well behaved when you're home because, well... you're home. When you leave she become anxious and acts out - the pooping, the food stealing, etc. I would first try some Nature's Miracle (can be found at pet stores) for cleaning up the pooping spot. It helps remove odors that you and I can't smell that dogs can, which should help the issue if it's just a marking / habit behavior. However, if the behavior continues you may need to look into tactics for dealing with separation anxiety which can include things like using a crate, providing lots of stimulating activities, gradually getting the dog used to the idea of being apart from you and keeping to strict routines when leaving the house.
posted by geeky at 1:22 PM on November 4, 2011
Can your husband start taking her for daily walks? It sounds like an absolute necessity for this dog, who is bored, smart, and understimulated.
posted by PhoBWanKenobi at 1:25 PM on November 4, 2011
posted by PhoBWanKenobi at 1:25 PM on November 4, 2011
BTW is buy your husband's desk a place she doesn't often spend time? I ask just because my experience is that when dogs go to the bathroom in the house it tends to be in a far off corner where they don't often hang out (when my dogs have been left to long for us its a back bathroom). I just say this because you may think she's pooping near your husband like its a psychological thing where it could be a medical issue and she can't help herself and that's just the spot she's identified as where to go in the house.
posted by bitdamaged at 1:32 PM on November 4, 2011 [2 favorites]
posted by bitdamaged at 1:32 PM on November 4, 2011 [2 favorites]
Do you have a door that you could put a dog door on?
My house has a dog-door installed which leads directly to a fenced in back yard. I am not sure if your house has that ability, but I definitlely suggest it to anyone with a dog an fenced yard.
As for the escaping, my dog also used to do this all the fraeking time and I have a 4ft chain fence all around my back yard. My dog would army crawl his way under areas where the fence would bend or the ground was uneven. I tried everything, but eventually just bit the bullet and bought an invisible fence to wire along the bottom perimeter of the fence. If he trys to dig his way under he gets a gentle shock. Now - no more escaping! I can't tell you the peace of mind it is knowing while I am at work all day my dog can hang out inside or chill under the sun on a hot summer day whenever he pleases.
posted by amazingstill at 1:36 PM on November 4, 2011
My house has a dog-door installed which leads directly to a fenced in back yard. I am not sure if your house has that ability, but I definitlely suggest it to anyone with a dog an fenced yard.
As for the escaping, my dog also used to do this all the fraeking time and I have a 4ft chain fence all around my back yard. My dog would army crawl his way under areas where the fence would bend or the ground was uneven. I tried everything, but eventually just bit the bullet and bought an invisible fence to wire along the bottom perimeter of the fence. If he trys to dig his way under he gets a gentle shock. Now - no more escaping! I can't tell you the peace of mind it is knowing while I am at work all day my dog can hang out inside or chill under the sun on a hot summer day whenever he pleases.
posted by amazingstill at 1:36 PM on November 4, 2011
Glad to hear she is well socialized in the dog park!
posted by Lesser Shrew at 1:45 PM on November 4, 2011
posted by Lesser Shrew at 1:45 PM on November 4, 2011
I grew up with a very-resourceful dachshund who trained us to always secure all food and garbage before leaving the house. (She was short but determined.) The food thing is very hard to train them out of; prevention (by packing all the food out of her reach) is easier.
posted by chowflap at 1:45 PM on November 4, 2011
posted by chowflap at 1:45 PM on November 4, 2011
Since your dog is so food-driven, try this. Cut a slice into a tennis ball, squeeze it until the slice gapes open and pop a small treat into it. Get the dog to bring it back to you, pull the treat out and give it to her. Repeat. Maybe she'll be willing to fetch if there's something in it for her.
posted by workerant at 1:50 PM on November 4, 2011
posted by workerant at 1:50 PM on November 4, 2011
I have a really anxious dog. She is crate-trained, and she LOVES her crate - it makes her a lot happier and less anxious. She doesn't see it as punishment at all, and her behavior isn't bad when we let her out in the evening (sure, she has a lot of energy, but she's not upset).
In the morning, when we're getting ready to leave, she goes in the crate by herself, and we close the door. In the evening, when she's ready for bed, she goes into the crate by herself and falls asleep in it - usually an hour or more before we close the door to it and go to bed. Those are sure signs to me that she actually likes it. Surely if she minded, she wouldn't go into it voluntarily. Additionally, since she became crate trained, her anxiety has gone down significantly and she's just a lot happier overall.
I wasn't around when my dog was crate-trained, but I know it's important to do it gradually and do it right. But, if done correctly, it's not cruel, and dogs can end very happy and content sleeping in their crates during the day.
posted by insectosaurus at 1:57 PM on November 4, 2011 [1 favorite]
In the morning, when we're getting ready to leave, she goes in the crate by herself, and we close the door. In the evening, when she's ready for bed, she goes into the crate by herself and falls asleep in it - usually an hour or more before we close the door to it and go to bed. Those are sure signs to me that she actually likes it. Surely if she minded, she wouldn't go into it voluntarily. Additionally, since she became crate trained, her anxiety has gone down significantly and she's just a lot happier overall.
I wasn't around when my dog was crate-trained, but I know it's important to do it gradually and do it right. But, if done correctly, it's not cruel, and dogs can end very happy and content sleeping in their crates during the day.
posted by insectosaurus at 1:57 PM on November 4, 2011 [1 favorite]
+1 on the suggestion to see a vet. Make sure she is not in some sort of discomfort. Seemingly small ailments - urinary infection, sore gums -- can cause behavior problems.
My dog had some pretty dramatic behavior changes recently. I took him to the vet. Turns out he was in pain from an ear infection. We treated the ears. Dog is back to normal.
+1 on the dog walker. If you can possibly afford it, a daily scheduled walk is such a treat for a dog. They get to know the routine and look forward to it. A young German shepherd needs lots of exercise. She needs the mental stimulation of the sights, smells, and sounds on a good long walk.
posted by valannc at 3:09 PM on November 4, 2011
My dog had some pretty dramatic behavior changes recently. I took him to the vet. Turns out he was in pain from an ear infection. We treated the ears. Dog is back to normal.
+1 on the dog walker. If you can possibly afford it, a daily scheduled walk is such a treat for a dog. They get to know the routine and look forward to it. A young German shepherd needs lots of exercise. She needs the mental stimulation of the sights, smells, and sounds on a good long walk.
posted by valannc at 3:09 PM on November 4, 2011
Response by poster: The separation anxiety aspect sounds right. She gets upset when the kids leave, but she's devastated when I go.
She is a really smart dog, I think everybody is right when they say she's under stimulated. She basically lazes around the house. I like the idea of clicker training her to do stupid pet tricks. She loves people, and I think having her do cute things in public will only get her more petting and loves.
I only mentioned the "arguments" at the dog park to illustrate that I don't think it's a factor in her behavior even though it's the most recent change and the pooping started about the same time. I'm pretty sure she loves the dog park.
My husband's desk is in the far part of the house, and she never goes in there normally. I really think making sure she goes before we leave her can solve that problem. I just think she couldn't hold it any longer. (I never thought it was some kind of psychological thing against my husband.)
If anyone has any other ideas to teach her to fetch I'd love to hear them. I can occassionally get her to chase after a ball (especially if another dog is chasing it, she'll chase the other dog) but I can't figure out how to get her to bring it back to me. If she chases it she just does it half heartedly and always leaves the thing there. If it's her Kong with peanut butter she'll immediately lay down and lick the peanut butter out. If I throw a treat or a raw hide type thing she'll either eat it right then or carry it into another room. If I call her when she has the hide in her mouth she drops it.
I did have her checked by the vet and he said she's perfectly healthy. I guess I should have mentioned that earlier. Sorry.
Thanks so much for the help guys, I really appreciate it.
posted by TooFewShoes at 3:14 PM on November 4, 2011
She is a really smart dog, I think everybody is right when they say she's under stimulated. She basically lazes around the house. I like the idea of clicker training her to do stupid pet tricks. She loves people, and I think having her do cute things in public will only get her more petting and loves.
I only mentioned the "arguments" at the dog park to illustrate that I don't think it's a factor in her behavior even though it's the most recent change and the pooping started about the same time. I'm pretty sure she loves the dog park.
My husband's desk is in the far part of the house, and she never goes in there normally. I really think making sure she goes before we leave her can solve that problem. I just think she couldn't hold it any longer. (I never thought it was some kind of psychological thing against my husband.)
If anyone has any other ideas to teach her to fetch I'd love to hear them. I can occassionally get her to chase after a ball (especially if another dog is chasing it, she'll chase the other dog) but I can't figure out how to get her to bring it back to me. If she chases it she just does it half heartedly and always leaves the thing there. If it's her Kong with peanut butter she'll immediately lay down and lick the peanut butter out. If I throw a treat or a raw hide type thing she'll either eat it right then or carry it into another room. If I call her when she has the hide in her mouth she drops it.
I did have her checked by the vet and he said she's perfectly healthy. I guess I should have mentioned that earlier. Sorry.
Thanks so much for the help guys, I really appreciate it.
posted by TooFewShoes at 3:14 PM on November 4, 2011
German shepherds are originally worker dogs. They need to be kept busy with tasks/stuff to do. This is less true for the average pet shepherds but, still, I wonder if this is the issue here. There was one in my family's d it was happiest when we went on long hikes. We'd split and separate into a couple of small groups along the way and the dog would run back and forth trying to herd everybody back together. It cared for herding more than for catching and retrieving sticks. Which is no surprise... They're sheep dog, not retrievers.
posted by Hairy Lobster at 3:23 PM on November 4, 2011
posted by Hairy Lobster at 3:23 PM on November 4, 2011
Response by poster: They're sheep dog, not retrievers.
Exactly. She herds the kids when they're outside and she tries to herd the students when I pick my kids up from school, it frustrates her that I won't let her off leash then.
She also herds the other dogs at the dog park. Which is hilarious when there are other herding dogs trying to do the same thing.
I'm going to hit the library and see if I can find a good book on training her. I know she's capable and I think having something to do will make her much happier.
posted by TooFewShoes at 4:03 PM on November 4, 2011
Exactly. She herds the kids when they're outside and she tries to herd the students when I pick my kids up from school, it frustrates her that I won't let her off leash then.
She also herds the other dogs at the dog park. Which is hilarious when there are other herding dogs trying to do the same thing.
I'm going to hit the library and see if I can find a good book on training her. I know she's capable and I think having something to do will make her much happier.
posted by TooFewShoes at 4:03 PM on November 4, 2011
If you are headed to the library, look for Karen Pryor's booksthere, and check out her website. She's a guru of positive reinforcement training, which should take care of all the issues you mentioned. And pick up a clicker -- they are cheap and work miracles when combined with a reward your dog really loves.
posted by bearwife at 4:59 PM on November 4, 2011
posted by bearwife at 4:59 PM on November 4, 2011
nthing things that worked for me/others and should work for you, with some commentary:
crate training - while it may take her a bit to get used to it and it should never be used as punishment or when voices are raised, this is an ideal solution to so much of your problem. it will make her feel so much more secure to have a "cave" to retreat to. read up on appropriately outfitting a crate for maximum soothing. she can wear an anxiety wrap/thundershirt/pressure jacket while in the crate to further reduce her worry.
clicker training - great for GSD! again, it may take her some time to see the value in it, but profuse praise and appropriate treats should show her the value fairly quickly. fun for the humans, too.
business before being left alone - make absolutely certain you have time to allow her to completely eliminate before leaving her to her own devices, especially if you'll be gone more than an hour.
exercise - it looks like you're going after this one already, but wanted to emphasise that this will make so much of a difference for her quality of life, not just in letting her work off the energy but in keeping that big heart healthy. if no one in the house is able to give her at least a couple of hours of good movement a day, definitely consider getting a dog walker. on the extra plus side, you'd also be supporting a local business!
stimulation - complex puzzles are probably going to be more for keeping her occupied than teaching her utterly new behaviours, but for smart dogs being left alone for a while, that's still a huge benefit.
Nature's Miracle on that poop spot - zap the spot and about a 1' radius from all edges of it with NM three times (follow the application instructions explicitly, no exceptions), allowing it to dry out completely in between. this should reprogram that spot for her.
invisible fence - I'm iffy on this, but the minor discomfort is worth having more peace of mind that her compulsions won't get her into trouble if she happens to be in the backyard. it sounds to me like being in the backyard isn't a good idea as a solution for when she's going to be alone due to her anxiety and attachment (too much space to worry in, too many distractions outside her area of control), but it's good to have it secured for her play.
game play with humans - that room-to-room "come" game is a splendid idea. use "play games dog" (without quotes) as a beginning search string and you'll find lots of great stuff like these.
swimming as exercise - I know it's getting to be winter so this might be something to put off until next year, but loads of pups enjoy this energy-burning, cooling activity.
I didn't see this suggested:
bitter apple spray on the recycling and garbage bins, perhaps, to make them less attractive for snooping for "treats"? it won't help with general food items and you'd need to wash your hands each time you lifted things in and out, but maybe a few test tastes could give you a bit more leeway in where these things are kept, at least?
play tunnel for encouraging active play that requires thinking - not sure if she'd be totally into it, but I've known many dogs who really enjoyed climbing around in these, especially if they could play follow-the-leader with their people. some adopted them as cozy sleep spots (although twitching dreams often led to startled wake-ups due to rolling).
I definitely would not add another dog to this situation. Your husband's feeling about that is quite right.
posted by batmonkey at 6:49 PM on November 4, 2011
crate training - while it may take her a bit to get used to it and it should never be used as punishment or when voices are raised, this is an ideal solution to so much of your problem. it will make her feel so much more secure to have a "cave" to retreat to. read up on appropriately outfitting a crate for maximum soothing. she can wear an anxiety wrap/thundershirt/pressure jacket while in the crate to further reduce her worry.
clicker training - great for GSD! again, it may take her some time to see the value in it, but profuse praise and appropriate treats should show her the value fairly quickly. fun for the humans, too.
business before being left alone - make absolutely certain you have time to allow her to completely eliminate before leaving her to her own devices, especially if you'll be gone more than an hour.
exercise - it looks like you're going after this one already, but wanted to emphasise that this will make so much of a difference for her quality of life, not just in letting her work off the energy but in keeping that big heart healthy. if no one in the house is able to give her at least a couple of hours of good movement a day, definitely consider getting a dog walker. on the extra plus side, you'd also be supporting a local business!
stimulation - complex puzzles are probably going to be more for keeping her occupied than teaching her utterly new behaviours, but for smart dogs being left alone for a while, that's still a huge benefit.
Nature's Miracle on that poop spot - zap the spot and about a 1' radius from all edges of it with NM three times (follow the application instructions explicitly, no exceptions), allowing it to dry out completely in between. this should reprogram that spot for her.
invisible fence - I'm iffy on this, but the minor discomfort is worth having more peace of mind that her compulsions won't get her into trouble if she happens to be in the backyard. it sounds to me like being in the backyard isn't a good idea as a solution for when she's going to be alone due to her anxiety and attachment (too much space to worry in, too many distractions outside her area of control), but it's good to have it secured for her play.
game play with humans - that room-to-room "come" game is a splendid idea. use "play games dog" (without quotes) as a beginning search string and you'll find lots of great stuff like these.
swimming as exercise - I know it's getting to be winter so this might be something to put off until next year, but loads of pups enjoy this energy-burning, cooling activity.
I didn't see this suggested:
bitter apple spray on the recycling and garbage bins, perhaps, to make them less attractive for snooping for "treats"? it won't help with general food items and you'd need to wash your hands each time you lifted things in and out, but maybe a few test tastes could give you a bit more leeway in where these things are kept, at least?
play tunnel for encouraging active play that requires thinking - not sure if she'd be totally into it, but I've known many dogs who really enjoyed climbing around in these, especially if they could play follow-the-leader with their people. some adopted them as cozy sleep spots (although twitching dreams often led to startled wake-ups due to rolling).
I definitely would not add another dog to this situation. Your husband's feeling about that is quite right.
posted by batmonkey at 6:49 PM on November 4, 2011
Depending on the age of your kids, you may have several dog walkers/trainers already living at your house!
Give them incentive to work and play with the dog, either paying them or allowing them to trade in dog training for other chores.
While you are at the library, pick up a book on agility training, and see if you can get the kids involved in training her. It's amazing what even adult dogs can learn to do.
posted by lootie777 at 6:20 AM on November 5, 2011
Give them incentive to work and play with the dog, either paying them or allowing them to trade in dog training for other chores.
While you are at the library, pick up a book on agility training, and see if you can get the kids involved in training her. It's amazing what even adult dogs can learn to do.
posted by lootie777 at 6:20 AM on November 5, 2011
This thread is closed to new comments.
I disagree with your husband, but crate training will take some time so do what you can to avoid her having the opportunity to poop until she's comfortable being crated. (you should also consider that the pooping may be because, for some reason, she can't hold it like she once could.)
Some dogs are just natural born scavengers. Your practice of keeping things where she can't get them is really the only option, I think.
These arguments at the dog park - how do they happen and what do you do? You should discuss this with a trainer.
FWIW, around four is about when dogs truly mature so that may be part of what you see as changes.
posted by Lesser Shrew at 12:42 PM on November 4, 2011 [1 favorite]