Not easy raising a puppy! - Page 3

LOL That was kinda funny Melissa. Hopefully not true! LOL Question... Does he appear scared of people by (cowering, tucking tail, hiding, growling or running?) Sometimes a very dominent pup does not like strangers to rub the top of his head. Have them rub him on the chest and see what he does. I am super picky about a dog being shy or timid and have returned several thru the years. When I buy I stress very strongly to the breeder about the temperment and nerves so if it shows up and is not what I was told it goes back, I will keep it for 2-3 weeks ususally so I am sure. I have a chart showing the fear stages a GSD goes thru and if I can find it will send it to you. Several websites have this chart. It's may be be 100% accurate for all dogs but gives you a frame of reference.

Meant to say it may not be 100% accurate on the chart........

Thanks, Desert. But, my puppy still has round worms, coccidia, an umbilical hernia and one testicle. Yeah, I'm upset. And no, it's not his head that he doesn't like petted... he is fearful of strangers in a big way. If you can find the chart, I'd love to have it. Thanks! Melissa meliphilia@yahoo.com

Hi, DesertRanger, I would be curious to see the chart too. I have a wondereful 8.5 month old gal raising for cadaster work. She is an import.Great communication from Breeder, complete health papers. They still keep in touch and breed many dogs. Sarah Satlas5471@aol.com

I have not looked yet but will do so. Melissa I am sorry to hear about your pup. Have you tried to return it and/or get another pup? Remember, most litters(even with great parents) will have one or two superior pups, a few average and one or two of poor quality. It is easy to get attached to a pup and some breeders count on that so inferior dog's don't get returned. I would not hesitate to return it and get another, you will be much happier in the long run.

I got pick of the litter.. he seemed like an awesome puppy when I got him. There are no more puppies from that litter left and I'm too upset to talk about it anymore tonight. Thanks so much for all your help. I'll check back tmw. Thanks again

Unusal for the pick to be last one taken. NorthwestK9 has some good articles including one that discuss's how fear stages are mis-understood and people use it to make excuses for their dogs. www.nwk9.com under Canine behavior then "The unfortunate Popularity of Fear". I cannot find my fear stage file but did locate several on the interent. www.vanerp.net/ilse/GSDINFO/stagesofcaninedev.htm I feel that I should just shut up but am trying to help you. I am very sorry you are having these troubles and understand as I have been thru it before as have many other people. My personel thoughts are we are starting to see to many cases of shy and timid dogs as some breeders strive for the perfect look and neglect the temperment and nerves.

Good morning, DesertRangers. Thanks for the links, I will check them out now. Actually, I chose him first. They were all sold before they were born, but we had first pick. He was incredibly outgoing when we brought him home.. then after just a day or so, that all changed. Ok.. I'm going to read the articles. Thanks again so much!

Also, I just wanted to say thank you to all of the emails from people on this board, you have no idea how much it has helped me. Thanks again :)

Good luck with your puppy, Melissa. We are all pulling for you. As Ranger said, most here have been there, done that so we know how you are feeling.