Dealing with a sheltie's history of trauma

S

SpaceCadet

Forums Regular
Donovan, my oldest sheltie is 3 1/2 years old. For the first 9 months of his life, things were "normal". He was a quick learner, and we spent a lot of time together. We share an incredible bond. He used to be friendly with children and adults alike. He never had issues with other dogs. He got along with everyone and was totally happy go lucky.

Unfortunately, my relationship with my boyfriend at the time(who had lived with us for Donovan's entire life up to that point) became abusive towards me. He frequently pushed me around, threw things, punched holes in the wall, screamed at me, etc. This often happened in front of Donovan, because Donovan was always with me.

It has been 2 1/2 years since I escaped that person and situation. But Donovan still has anxiety and aggression issues. He began to bark non stop whenever I left the room without him. He would nip or bite(but never break skin) anyone who tried to hug me or shake my hand. He hates children now. He's afraid of them, but will act aggressively towards them if he feels threatened. He doesn't even get along with most other dogs anymore. It takes him quite awhile to warm up to new dogs and people these days.

How can I manage his anxiety and aggression when I know what caused these problems, but not how to fix it? :(
 
I'm sorry for your past experience and Donovan's issues. It does sound as if he is almost "resource guarding" you now to keep you away from everyone in case it happens again. I don't have any specific answers for you...perhaps others here might have some suggestions.

My recommendation would be that you consult a canine behavioral expert for help with him. I think in hard cases like this our dogs, like humans, sometimes need professional help to work through these things. I'm sure there is a cure for him, but I think you need someone with the correct training and cues to help you.

I'd ask your vet to recommend someone who has experience with Shelties, which are more sensitive than most breeds, and that's key. Otherwise you might try asking the ASSA (American Shetland Sheepdog Association) or the AKC for a name in your area. Good luck, and please let us know how Donovan does!
 
I know this may sound nuts, but have you considered an animal communicator? As many folks here know, I had an amazing experience with the woman I selected on the advice of a friend. $75 might just save you years of frustration.

The thread is called:
The Shelties Speak: My Experience with an Animal Communicator
 
Ann said:
My recommendation would be that you consult a canine behavioral expert for help with him. I think in hard cases like this our dogs, like humans, sometimes need professional help to work through these things. I'm sure there is a cure for him, but I think you need someone with the correct training and cues to help you.
Click to expand...

I was thinking about this post while I was getting for work, and honestly I would do exactly what Ann suggested. Well, I would probably go to our trainer first and I think she would assess and probably recommend a behavioral expert. I think it's good to bring someone in who has knowledge of dog behavior and knows how to help your dog get past this trauma without making it worse. That's the only problem I have with amateur behavioral things.. especially when it comes to aggression. I wouldn't want things to go the other way and make it worse.

Also, I am 4+ years out of an abusive relationship, mostly verbal and emotional. I am glad to know you were able to get out of it and I'm hoping you've been able to move on and get any help you needed.
 
I'm very sorry you and Donovan had this experience, but I'm glad it is in past the now.

I also agree with Ann. I'd look for a canine behaviorist. Try and find one that has good knowledge of herding breeds. A behaviorist trainer can give you good insight on his reactions and help you overcome them. They can recommend calming tools like thundershirts, calming collars, pheromones, etc. And if none of that helps, you can talk to you vet about medication to help take the edge off.
 
Great advice already. I will just add this- have a full exam and make sure to check the thyroid levels as well. You want to make sure there is no health issue causing this or making it worse.
 
It sounds to me like you need to find someone that is well versed in counter conditioning and other behaviour adjustment training. Wish you were closer as I know Mirkka is really good at this and have seen the wonderful results she has produced.
I also agree that it would be wise to check Donovan's overall health and do a Thyroid 5 panel on him.
I'm glad you are out of that mess. Now you have to look forward and use the 3 p's - positiveness, persistance and patience. I wish you the best of luck with your boy. Keep us posted.
 
Thanks, everyone :o he is so very special to me. I have my own issues from the abusive relationship, so it hurts even more to know that he is going through the same thing. I'm honestly more angry at my ex for traumatizing my little guy than treating me the way he did. I tried a thunder shirt, which did help a little...but I realized that it was too big. I tried the next size smaller which would have been perfect if he were female. He is an awkward sized sheltie, and the better fitting thunder shirt actually chaffed against his privates. I couldn't do that to him. I'm actually planning on trying a calming collar or diffuser for now. We will be moving out of state soon- then I can try to find a behavioral specialist. I would even be up to speaking with an animal mediator.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top