What do you think . . . . - Page 2

Well she's HOME-a good traveler.  The first introduction of the gang were a bit "iffy"-just got off the phone with the shelter manager-seems she & the other two were left in their runs for about the last two or three years with very little interaction.

I found out today that she's not housebroken either, has no manners and seemingly very little formal training-I took her & the others for a walk around my five acres and even on a pinch collar she wore me out.

They groomed her recently and she is a gorgeous dark red sable-rather overweight.  She is schedule for surgery in about ten days.  The shelter adopted out the male that came in with her but the other dog was put down due to age & very severe arthritis-quite snappy with everyone.

The adventure begins . . . .  

Give her time. The dogs I've adopted have taken a minimum of two weeks to start settling in. Some take a lot longer. Also, my experience with adult dogs that aren't housebroken is that they learn very quickly. Be sure to set her up for success and take it slow. She is very stressedright now and you don't want to overwhelm her. That is when they act out and it can get ugly. I've always kept the rescues separate from the other dogs for at least a few days, depending on the dog. Give her clear boundaries also. Hang in there. You're doing a wonderful thing.

Everything Starrchar said & take a deep breath! It won't be a cake walk, but you knew that going in, right? Even totally housebroken dogs can break down with a new enviornment & routine. Just keep everyone safe & let everyone get used to things slowly. And don't forget to give yourself a pat on the back, you deserve it! And we're here if you need to ask questions, blow off steam, or just plain vent. Prayers & positive energy coming your way! jackie harris

Thanks folks, she's not my first rescue GS, I've had several over the last 13 years-but she is my first with the harder mentality-I've actually called the shelter to return her, but they are full-----she is a wonderful girl-by herself, ok with the other dogs-unless they turn and face her, then she wants to go for them and they are not challenging her either-my dogs do not understand why they are being told to stay back, they are used to being at my side as it pleases them.

Currently it's either the packs' out and she crated with frequent swapping-she needs space to be able to move and wear herself out, but I do not feel she's ready to go off leash outside-it would be nice if I had my training area fenced or even a run but I don't---too bad she's not younger, I believe she would be a good schutzhund prospect.

I did go up and speak with my former obedience instructor last evening-she's one that says "bring the dogs-if they act aggressive, we'll muzzle them, they need to be in training".

I really like this girl, I think she's an interesting challenge, but I sure do not want to endanger my other five.

Ditto what everyone else said and take whatever shelters or rescues tell you with a grain of salt; most of them couldn't tell a dog was pissing on their leg if their shoe was full.

Keep her away from the others and she won't be a danger. Personally, I don't know why she has already been allowed with your dogs. Not how I would've done it. Not judging you, but if you've already tried to return her, then obviously your plan isn't working and I would reassess and take a new tactic. Have patience and try to think of what's going on from HER perspective. What were you expecting turning your dogs out with her? 

She's no different than some imports who come as kennel dogs not used to or good with other animals. You work through it. If you can't, you rotate them. 

Keith, LOL. EXACTLY!!! I can't keep from laughing anymore when someone cites their rescue experience as validation of their dog handling capabilities.

  I do agree with JENN and Keith

   Your new girl is nice and you do have  a challenge but all will be well if you keep her sperate.

   NOT for ever but for the bond between you and her..She has no clue and I am sure you realize each gsd you handle is different.

   YR

I just needed to thank you for opening your heart to yet another Dog. May God bless you and your pack!

And on the other hand, those who rescue seem to deal with issues the experts never encounter. Go figure.

Some "deal" with them. Some pass them off to others who can't deal with them. Some don't bother. Many don't want the liability. I quit rescue (organized rescue, anyway) because I got tired of biting my tongue when faced with the Cesar Millan couch experts with the Petsmart training mentality who want to "rehabilitate" hopeless dogs and kill strong ones. 

I had a rescue person at my house to pick up some stuff I sold on craigslist. They were horrified watching Capri's pups interact at 4 weeks. They told me I should be holding the "mean ones" in a "calm submissive" position.   When I got done laughing, I felt sorry for the poor dogs whose lives are in her hands as an "evaluator." 

I hope this girl settles in quickly and is able to stay in this home. I LOVE taking in older dogs. I could go the rest of my life w/out another puppy.