Re: [PyrNet-L] Aggression and Pyrs

[Adrienne Wilder <draggon@STC.Net>]

SDOBSCHA@lnmta.bentley.edu wrote:
> 
> the difference between alpha and temperment is real but the real question
> is:  what does one do about a pyr with a bad temperment???  i'll be the
> first to admit that i have a bad tempered pyr but i don't know what to do
> about it.  i've written in a few times before about the problems with
> seamus but i still haven't gotten any concrete solutions back from the
> list.  i've curbed all the alpha problems in the house (stealing food,
> growling over down stays, jumping up, etc.) to where he's actually quite

You are not the only one with a dog w/ a bad temperment.
There is only one sure fire way to have a chance at getting a dog with a 
good temperment.

Buy your dog from a knowledgable and very serious and dedicated breeder.

I bought my first pyr from the wrong person and not only have developed 
into an almost physical mess but he has a very messed up temperment as 
well.  Despite early socilaization, training, and alpha work he is still 
and always will be the way he is.  He is not a pet, but a burden, and I 
have chosen to keep him until I cannot and at that time I will put him 
down.
The only way to make sure that nothing will happen is to build a fence 
that the dog cannot get out of and that people cannot get into.  Seclude 
him, keep people protected from him, and let him exsist in his peice of 
space with you and the family (or whoever makes him happy).  It can be 
argued to wether or not this is a life at all.  I have said it isn't 
myself but I have chosen it for my own dog.  He is content, for now, and 
he more than likely won't live as long as he should simply because he is 
so poorly structured.
	Owning a dog with a temperment problem is not only a risk but it 
is a constant strain on your stress levels.  You always have to be "on 
guard" and watch out for other people and take care to not let the 
situation get out of your control.  You can never trust your dog and you 
can never let your guard down...it is a constant battle, and it will get 
old very quickly.



-- 


Adrienne Wilder  www.stc.net/~draggon/index.htm (pet portraits)
Murrayville GA

"Oh, to be loved by a dog!"

Home of:
The golden gang,
Patou and the evil sister geese.
and many stray cats.