Quote:
Originally posted by TrishB
I would like to say that environment over-rules all. However, it's the type of environment that you have to watch out for.
A dog with a predisposition to aggression, may do quite well with an experienced, dedicated dog owner who utilizes all of the resources at their disposal (Kennel Clubs, Veterinarians, Obedience Training, etc.).
|
I disagree with the first line. I have two prefectly well adjusted, well socialized, correctly tempered rottweiler. I then got a third as a puppy as I did the first two. From day one this puppy was not right. He started with fear avoidance behaviors and went into fear bitting. He was terrified of everything, but at different times. He could be the most confident puppy in the world, but that was far and few. I had him in two puppy classes(Ian Dunbar) and after that basic obedience. He had more socialization then my other two had put together and then some. I had him to the vet for full workup- nothing. I had three different behaviorist evaluate him- they couldn't make any sense of his behavior because it changed on a daily basis. I couldn't train him out of his fear aggressive behavior. he just got bigger and more dangerous.
There is a difference between a normal tempered dog that had a lousy "childhood" and exibit unwanted behaviors and one that is "bad to the bone" from the get go. The first you can lay down the law and get some immediate and continued sucess. The second, depending on how severe, maybe managed, but never trusted.
Just my two cents.