An editorial by Pooh.. an impassioned plea.

[LORHEL]

I truly think this is of the utmost importance, and I would like for this to be a must read, before joining this forum. When I look back to the time when I had zero knowledge of dogs, and became a first time owner, had I read something like this, stumbling on the site when I did, it would have better prepared me for what lay ahead.

This is so important, because of the size of our breed, and their intelligence.

Best piece I've seen yet, and I know it is from someone who has first hand experience. We need this, and the other thread, about your experience with your "bite" to be the first thing that people see. It might be "harsh" but it might also wake people up to the fact that owning a dog like this comes with tremendous responsibility.

[poohbearsmom]

There are so many wives tales, urban myths, and utter bunk out there in regards to dogs, their *real* needs from us, and exactly how we should treat them.

On a daily basis I get to see the result of dogs who've not had enough structure, the result of lack of basic understanding of what a dog really is, what's appropriate to expect of a dog, and what's appropriate not to expect of a dog... most of the time from the get go.

The day we all start respecting dogs for who and what they are, their strengths and their weaknesses... that will surely be a grand day for all canines everywhere.

We are truly blessed to keep company with such a forgiving beast.

[LORHEL]

Sorry about that, I should have said "dog bite". You can delete my post if you need to. Or modify it. I was assuming that everyone read it and forgot they haven't.

[JaniceH]

Just read this Poohbearsmom...I just wish that everyone who intends to get a rottie would have the same opportunity.

Thank you for this wonderful piece of writing.

[StephanieandToby]

Two paws up!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[miccmill]

Fantastic post, thank you.

I'd like to point out that much of what's in this post was given to me as help when I first came here with a fear-aggressive/weak nerved bitch.

I especially used the advise about learning to read dog body language in fact I made an obsessive habit of it until I "got" it.

Understanding dog body language is of utmost importance - it can give you the chance to stop a 'hunt' before it starts, stop a dog fight before it starts, change a dog's state from fearful to relaxed, keep you from being bitten by a defensive/fearful/dominant dog, and know when to take Fido to the veterinarian, among other things.

Thanks again

[ljs0827]

Bravo!!
Very much needed info - too bad all dog owners can't be forced to read it (and COMPREHEND it)!

[spoiledgirls]

Oh so true. I often explain to non tue dog people the same thing. Lots of them are dog owners! They don't undestand what their pooch is trying to say! That's when they have serious problems and get rid of the dog!

[JonandMichelle]

Excellent post Elisabeth. All too often we do not realize how our *human* behavior impacts the canine behavior, and in turn, the canine pays the price.

I see the book The Other End of the Leash was mentioned, but I also encourage viewers to read Turid Rugaas Calming Signals as well.

[propertylady57]

DITTO!!! I have to agree with everyone here. This is a wonderful post. I only wish this could be posted in other places other than this website. The public must be educated especially when it comes to Rotties and other large and powerful breed dogs.
I take my Della to the local Dog Park several times during the week and the regulars know her well and all love her. I came one day and as I was taking her out of the car I overheard a new couple say" OH NO, she has a rottweiler". The woman standing next to them said "Oh, its okay, thats just Della, she's a sweetheart". It's sad that people automatically think "BAD DOG" or "DANGEROUS DOG". I have many people come over to me and comment on what a great dog she is. I hope we are doing our part to change some minds. But it doesn't just happen. We have been to many hours of training for both her and me. I wish all dog owners would take the time to train and educate both their dog and themselves. It might be a start of change. A change of minds.
Thanks poohbearsmom for your post.

[Tobago]

Lovely post, thanks for taking the time to make it.

[zharzebah]

Fantastic couldnt say it better!!!
if only all people were like dogs........would be a much much better world

[MarleysMama]

Thank you very much for this post!!!!

I have said that I want a dog that will love my children and protect our family, amongst other things. IMO, that is a LOT to ask and the LEAST I can do is give him the tools necessary to be the best he can be, and try to understand things from his point of view.

So many expect so much and invest so little (and I'm not just talking money) and it's the poor dog and the breed that suffers b/c of the 'owners' ignorance. I have always felt that way and then to read this, you have gone so in depth, and have been so much more thorough than I could have ever been.

I know someone has mentioned this, but you really should write a book. These are the things that need to be said..and you have a way with words that allows you to not only teach, but allows me to feel confident as well...this is what you should do and why. I really appreciate the time that you took to write this. I am sure MANY dog's have had a much easier life having had owners that 'get it'.

Sad thing is, they wouldn't care enough to research anything on their dog and probably doesn't even know this site, let alone this post, exist. :(

[clsegura]

God bless you !I have 3 rotties now but have had many others I have never had a rottie problem but many people problems. Rotties need someone who is storng in mind and body to help them live happy lifes with their moms and dads and the people they know.thank you for you post
carol

[Milo'sMom]

Great Post! It made me appreciate having a rottie that loves being hugged and not just by me, but by everyone he meets. I am grateful. Thank you