Dog Park Manners

[Daisy's Mom]

No help from me either... I just want to say that I think Duchess is beautiful!

[TheAntiPam]

Duchess, this is your Auntie Pam writing! I'm glad you got your picture up for us, and I'm proud of your mom for working hard to make your life better and that you keep trying to be a good pup!

Good luck with your move, to you and all your fambly!

[chembear]

This is just an update. I agree with everybody who says Duchess is beautiful, but then I'm a bit biased. She seems to be getting better but she's still very excited to see us return. I had to go out today and left the kids and the dog with a sitter. She was happy to see me when I returned but in the beginning she would go crazy even if she was at home with the rest of the family. A step in the right direction?

I'm still a little confused at if she thinks she's the alpha and she has to take care of me why does she listen to everything else I request of her? Most of what I've read about separation anxiety and dominate dogs is the dog exhibits destructive behavior. She's not at all destructive except when the gardeners are around. She just goes absolutely nuts when we come home. I know that she's getting better about this as well because it takes her longer to realize we're even home. In other words she's not sleeping in the window with one ear perked for the sound of the car. Am I right to assume that she's improving or am I reading more into the situation. Also her craziness doesn't seem to last as long.

Cindy, who thinks she's having trouble making a coherant statement.

[carrie]

It is common for a dog to exhibit dominant behaviour in one or two situations and not in any other.
I have seen dogs that have been competition level obedience animals refusing to allow their owner access to an armchair, for instance.
Many dogs are happy with their position while at home but take the role of Alpha as soon as they step out the door.
Seperation anxiety has become intense by the time destructive behaviour is seen. Sadly this is the first indication to most owners that they have a problem. I have had clients that have even taken the chewing of their possesions and furniture as "normal" dog behaviour and have not asked for help until the dog has started to eliminate in the house or until it has become aggressive!
If your dogs behaviour is becoming less intense and is lasting for shorter periods then progress is being made - you are not fooling yourself!