Dog Community

Dogs are too attached to me

DPU

Posted : 1/21/2007 11:02:14 AM

I recall another thread on this subject but couldn't find it. If OP recalls, I would sure appreciate a reference to the thread and a comment on the outcome.

Another foster dog showing at Petsmart and the main topic of conversation are my foster dogs Newt and Marvin (in my sig). The lady handlers pointed out that Newt and Marvin are way too attached to me so it is extremely difficult for them to handle. I admit they had a very hard time and the dogs were rambunctious. I have other duties there so if I was not near or left the area, the dogs went wild. Marvin is a SA dog but his condition is managed and has made great improvements. Newt is a Pittie mix so his loyalty and dedication to his human is engrained in his breed. I do also admit that these dogs are way too attached to me, Newt especially. During walks, I have never seen a dog check in with me as many times as Newt does. That has been pointed out to me by even strangers observing.

Buried in another thread I mentioned that with my fosters I give them a lot of freedom so I can determine their true personalities. I don't have a lot of expectation from the foster and as long as they follow my house rules, I let them be dogs, members of the pack, and figure things out on their own. Mind you when direction is called for, it is strong and immediate. My relationship with them can be described as aloof. I do this an attempt to not get them attached to me. It was pointed out to me by a member in that other thread, that my behavior is actually strong leadership and the dogs eat that up. OK, I need to reverse this and reign in this behavior caused by the attachment. Any suggestions or anyone else have this experience?

I should point out that I did change the handling equipment by using no pull harness. I repeatedly explained and demonstrated how to use the equipment but the handlers never got it right.

mrv

Posted : 1/21/2007 11:06:17 AM

Got any dog savy friends who would take them to a basic obedience class for you. Other options would to go to that person's home, drop off the dog, go for a drive or a walk while they work with the dog. The idea would be short time frames slowly built up. I have friends who pass their dogs off to me at training or dog shows or an extended weekend. It has been very helpful.

snownose

Posted : 1/21/2007 11:15:25 AM

In my experience it is hard not to get attached to any animals in my care, I hope for early placement.

I try to stay more aloof around the foster, also, but then guilt just eats me alive.

At this point I don't have to worry about it, all 5 dogs are with me for good, out of the 5, 2 were purchased.
The oldest rescue is Luke and he has been with me since he was 1, and he is 13.

DPU

Posted : 1/21/2007 11:19:42 AM

Mrv, interesting that you said that...passing off the dog to someone else for obedience or e.g dog sitting. Marvin and I are currently attending Clicker training. I tried to coax several people, even members of my rescue organization to attend the class with Newt, I would pay. No takers. Friends used the excuse they would get attached to the attack and they could not risk that. Did not get response from most rescue members other than those that said they had a schedule conflict. The message of your reply is to get the dogs use to staying with people, increasing the interval time. Because there is a behavioral issue, the people have to be dog savvy in order to handle the situation.

mrv

Posted : 1/21/2007 11:46:10 AM

Have you considered joining a dog training club or kennel club? Those clubs associated with AKC and UKC events often have a number of highly experienced and pretty savy dog folk, as well as a consistent schedule for contact. At my clubs, we will pass dogs around for evaluation, for socialization and for building trust and confidence. You might want to investigate what is available in your area.