Elisabeth

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  • #449250

    Elisabeth
    Member

    I was completely surprised to see my post from over a year ago still on the board. I’ve been away for a long time, been through several moves and changes. Anywho, I skimmed through some of the pages and came across this post:
    anniegirl I think your post is an ignorant one. Whether people are poor or not should be of no concern to you. Whether they own pets and can afford them also should be of no concern to you. Concern yourself with what goes on in your own backyard and leave others alone. I really take offense to your post and not because I’m poor because I am definitely not, but because it’s simply none of your business what other people can and cannot afford. Its that simple. ADRIEAN
    I just wanted to reply because ADRIEAN, you completely misread and misunderstood my post. I AM concerned with what goes on in my backyard, that’s why I asked the question. I couldn’t care less what anyone else makes money-wise, it makes no difference to me. I didn’t ask to know other can or can’t afford. I started out my post generally, but then got specific so that it was clear that I was talking about myself. I want to come to terms with my own self about this question and I wanted to read views on all sides of it, which I got in spades. Thanks to everyone. Adriean, you think my post is ignorant and I think you read way too much into things and are too easily offended. Oh well, I guess we can’t always agree with everyone.
    So many people say they would sacrifice anything to save their dogs and I think that is awesome, but I don’t know that I could say that because I have a child who’s live in totally in mine and my husband’s hands and before I think of a pet, I have to think of him. I would and have sacrificed a lot to care for my pets, but there’s a limit.
    One thing that this thread has taught me is about the pet insurance stuff and other avenues of getting money in an emergency and I’m very grateful for that knowledge.
    Someone asked if I had a pet. No, I asked this question because I am considering getting one (a dog). Just thought I’d let you know.

    #469419

    Elisabeth
    Member

    I believe they will be considered very wrong in their actions. To me, this should mean that those who created the breeds I mentioned shouldn’t have created them. I’m not advocating "designer" dogs. I’m sure the huge majority of them don’t have the motivations of the creators of other breeds, but what about thuse who do? I’m just wondering what ya’ll think about this situation.

    #469418

    Elisabeth
    Member

    I think breeding "designer" dogs is wrong for the same reasons that most people don’t need to be breeding their purebred dogs: there are already so many dogs suffering in shelters, they don’t know what they doing thereby endangering their dogs. The only good reason to breed dogs is to improve the breed. Since there is no breed such as "labradoodle", "puggle", etc. there is no good reason to perpetuate the line. Also it is extremely unethical and wrong to decieve people by touting them as something special. I would think, more than an other breeders, those who breed these mixes are doing it just for the money.

    when I first became aware of the "designer dog craze" I did some research on the different types and the reasons people say they are good and it made me think of a question. Why is it that this practice of creating "new" breeds is denigrated so completely and automatically now (by dog lovers anyways) when several of the breeds we have today were created specifically to achieve a look and/or ability by mixing other existing breeds. Examples are Black Russian Terrier, Parson (Jack) Russel Terrier, Bullmastiff, Australian Shepherd, Silky Terrier, and Doberman. I realize that intent/motivation is one difference, but if a person today says they want to create a breed that fulfills a specific purpose and they can’t find what they want in the existing breeds, and they go about it in a responsible way i.e. researching, getting a mentor, doing health testing .. cont

    #455699

    Elisabeth
    Member

    Hey Drew, I think its was a good idea and responsible of you to come in here to try and get help. While what everyone has said is very true, I want you to know that we understand you are not the decision maker in your household and may not be able to implement the changes that need to be made. That said, I hope you don’t give up on trying to make your dog’s life better. Unfortunately, its your parents who are being irresponsible, but try to reason with them calmly and show them the research you’ve done and try to take on duties like brushing regularly, exercising, feeding and watering. As far as the dog’s size, that has nothing to do with being inside. Even an Irish Wolfhound (tallest dog) or Mastiff (heaviest dog) should be able to spend time inside with their family when they want to. I wouldn’t suggest that your parents get another dog if they aren’t willing to do right by it, but for future reference there are dogs that people with allergies can usually live with such as Bedlington Terrier
    Bichon Frise
    Chinese Crested
    Irish Water Spaniel
    Kerry Blue Terrier
    Maltese
    Poodles (Toy, Miniature or Standard)
    Portuguese Water Dog
    Schnauzer (Miniature, Standard or Giant)
    Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
    Xoloitzcuintli

    Keep us posted on your progress

    #455703

    Elisabeth
    Member

    IMO means "In my opinion" I usually try to refrain from too many abbreviations, but that one slipped through 🙂
    Also, I would just like to reiterate the importance of spaying (not related to dominance issues) besides the high chance of them getting cancer you could end up with unwanted pregnancies. Its the responsible thing to do.
    I hope thing smooth out.

    #455701

    Elisabeth
    Member

    Get the mastiff spayed immediately. And the rottie too if not done already. This will prevent/lower chances of cancer and other health problems. As you said the problem didn’t start until the mastiff’s first heat so perhaps if you get her spayed it will change the hormones so that she will not insist on being dominant. Unfortunately, since the behavior has already started I think it will be hard to stop. IMO, its not fair to the rottie to have this usurper come in an be the dominant one all of a sudden. Don’t let them be along together for their safety. And when the mastiff starts to show her dominance stop it immediately and let her know that her behavior is not acceptable. I would also suggest talking to a professional trainer.

    #449573

    Elisabeth
    Member

    I agree. I wish I’d never known about this situation now that nothing can be done. Moderators can you please delete this post? thanks.

    #455692

    Elisabeth
    Member

    I would suggest doing whatever it takes to secure your yard, repair holes or damage or how ever it is that he keeps getting out. If he digs out there are ways to block that such as sinking the fence or pouring concrete, but I would say its much better to train your dog not to dig. If he does like to dig get him a sand box to dig in and every time he digs take him to the sand box and bury treats so he will dig for them there. One likely reason that he is escaping is that he is bored. If you are not already, give him two or three walks a day and play with him lots: fetch, learning tricks etc. but don’t do too strenuous of excercises because he is still growing. Also, the solution that is the very best (IMO) is to make him an inside dog. He can learn to be housebroken if you take the time to train him (and use a crate) and he will be sooo much happier and not as likely to get bored. Every dog desires to be with their pack (you) and is happiest when they can spend their lives with you. he looks like some type of terrier mix and is therefore probably very active and smart so he needs things to keep him occupied. I hope things work out.

    #449569

    Elisabeth
    Member

    I guess we can close this discussion. He had the dog put down today. According to the mom the dog has never done anything to warrant such a reaction. It makes me sad so I really don’t want to talk about it. Thanks for everyone’s concern.

    #449566

    Elisabeth
    Member

    no, I’ve asked, but no response yet. I’m just gonna put a link in so anyone can get in contact. Thanks. and I’ll look up some Norwegian Elkhound rescues and tell them.

    #455637

    Elisabeth
    Member

    Hi glider, I am very sorry for your situation and can relate a little. When parents aren’t doing right by a pet there is not always a lot a child can do. Well, the simplest problem first: the way to lessen shedding is by brushing often as the previous person said. There are many products (vitamin/supplements) out there that claim to reduce shedding, but I have never tried any so I can’t vouch for them, but you could research them. Bathing every week will not help, and will actually harm because it depletes their natural skin oils.
    In my opinion, what Ruffles really needs is training from a professional trainer. I realize this is difficult but perhaps you could talk to your parents and tell about the research you’ve done and what Ruffles needs and offer to take on what responsibilties you can, i.e. save up money from babysitting or if you have a part time job to help pay for the training. I would normally suggest lots of exercise but it sounds like taking her out in public (without the muzzle) is just too great of a risk so try to play with her as much as possible down stairs and keep trying to get your parents involved in the care of the dog. But don’t nag :). I would also suggest that you/your parents not get rid of the dog. With her behavior problems it is doubtful she would get adopted. Sorry, I can’t help more. Hopefully others will have some input.

    #449441

    Elisabeth
    Member

    WMKbull, I did get a response from AKC; a nice, fairly prompt response. I have no other experience with with AKC so I cannot comment on your opinion of them.

    Sue- I wonder the same thing! Definitely a dog ignorant person(s).

    #469382

    Elisabeth
    Member

    will chew small objects and may choke on them. Do not overfeed this breed." The above info is from either akc.org or dogbreedinfo.com. I would add to the health thing that, as many toy breeds, they can have luxating patellas (knee caps slip out of place). And I would emphasize that they are very active. Just fyi, they are not a miniature version of the doberman pinscher. Hope this helps.

    #469381

    Elisabeth
    Member

    In the future you can find out a lot from http://www.akc.org and http://www.dogbreedinfo.com. But I’ll google one for ya :). 10 – 12 1/2 inches tall, 8 – 10 lbs. generally healthy, life span: 15 years or more, do fine in an apartment or house, easy to groom, "The Miniature Pinscher is a hardy little fellow that is very demanding and headstrong. This proud, overly courageous dog likes to bark. They are loyal to their masters, spirited and alert, with high energy. Intelligent, lively and brave, it is a big dog in a little dog’s body. The Miniature Pinscher is moderately protective. Some can be very aggressive with other dogs, but they are generally good with other pets and children provided the children do not pester. They are rather suspicious towards strangers, but their behavior depends entirely upon how they were brought up as young pups. Don’t spoil this breed too much or the dog may become a tyrant. The Miniature Pinscher can learn extremely well and wants very much to do so. It is certainly beneficial for its socialization to take the dog to puppy courses where it can meet other dogs and people. You will be amazed at how fast the Miniature Pinscher understands and obeys you. Pay particular attention when housebreaking this little Pinscher, since a little puddle from such a small dog can easily be overlooked; the dog may get the idea that you are happy to accept it fulfilling its natural needs indoors. The Miniature Pinscher is often called "King Of The Toys." Beware, this little dog

    #488532

    Elisabeth
    Member

    Well, if I were your cat I’d probably say wait since she’d probably like to live in peace. But I fully and totally understand your desire to have a dog. If you do think she will adjust (you know her best) then I would suggest rescuing an adult dog. Get one from a rescue that fosters the dogs in volunteer’s homes, not just a shelter. That way the foster parent can tell you a lot about the dog and if they think it would work. I would suggest a medium sized dog so that they won’t get stepped on by the children, and won’t step on the children themselves. If you don’t mind fur I would suggest a keeshond. Here’s some more: basset hound, boston terrier. Geez, that’s all I can think of based on the breeds general characteristics, and they’re not even that great of suggestions :). All the rest are either too small, too large, too active or have too high of a prey drive. So I definitely suggest getting a mix from a rescue so the dog’s individual temperment can be seen. Good luck!

Viewing 15 posts - 1 through 15 (of 47 total)