How do you help a dog to like (instead of dislike) a person? My husband evidently reminds the dog of the former abusive owner. Based on body shape we guess, because when he sees this shape on any person, he becomes angry.
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I've never had this problem but would think you could do with a dog like you would with a child who didn't care for you too much (a new sitter!) and let that person be the "good guy"...the one who feeds, waters, opens the door to go out, gives the treats, etc. If the dog is really upset at the sight of that person maybe the person could just lay the treat, etc. down so the dog can see it came from them and back away. Also, I've seen dogs be less intimidated when a person stoops to their level when talking to the dog. Of course, a person needs to know that the dog won't bite! Kindness in general should, over time, win the dog over.
I wonder IF the dog is instinctively sensing something, perhaps the inner fear your husband has of it. Animals are very intelligent and go by their sense's more then we humans do.
Take an old shirt or piece of clothing that your husband wears and place it where the dog can smell it 24/7 - getting used to his scent...and of course always be kind to the dog. Kindness wins not only humans over but animals as well. Perhaps that will help.
I agree with the "good guy' advice. Also, don't push...just being in the same room, non-threatening, even ignore the dog. Slow movements, quiet voice, etc. all to help the dog not fear the person. Treats, laid down as suggested, then maybe the dog will approach the person who is just sitting there ...being still, offering a treat in his hand placed on the floor.
Get him to feed the dog meals and treats, such as bones. Make sure no-one else feeds the dog during this time. The dog will look forward to receiving his treats and food, and ask your husband to show the dog lots of affection, starting off with pats, walks and playing fetch.
I have had this problem on 2 different occasions.
I clean houses, I've had 2 different dogs absolutely hate me, they growled and barked at me the whole time I was there, I tried treats and throwing the ball, none of this work after several trips, I finally just gave up and laid on the floor on my stomach. What happened was the dog came over smelled me and laid across the back of my neck to show there dominance and we were the best of friends ever since, this has happened twice, give it a try, it can't hurt.
I would not lay down on the floor. If you let the dog be dominant then you are going to have more problems. I do agree with letting him feed and give treats, the clothing thing too. Do not baby the dog whenever it has a negative reaction towards a person, because then it will think it is ok to do so. Instead, redirect its attention elsewhere, quickly. Even a slight but quick tug on the chain to get its mind focused elsewhere. Whenever it does react positively towards someone else, reward it profusely with treats and a lot of loving words and pets. I have tamed feral animals suck as cats and dogs for many years. Get a routine for the dog. Let hubby and you walk it together, with him holding the leash, pocket ful of treats (healthy ones can be bought) or a part of that days dog food can be used as a reward.
Well, I have a little dog that loved everyone, except for some reason my sister in law...we would have to "crate" the dog when she came to visit. Finally, I tried this...I got the dog a muzzle, so she would not snap and my sister in law then held her and petted her and talked to her. It only took twice and after she , the dog, knew she was not going to be hurt, she was fine. She still "woofs" a little when she comes in, but is otherwise OK
My mom had trouble with her dog in the same way-- it didn't like my dad, and it's still afraid of most men. It took about 4 years but finally the dog got over its fear of my dad, but other men still make it nervous. My dad fed the dog regular food and treats, and talked nicely and would pet the dog when it was calm enough. It took a lot of patience and just waiting for the dog to trust him.
Hi Holly. Im a Holly too. Well one way for your dog to respect you, or like as you put it. If you free feed your dog which is were you leave the bowl out all the time so he can eat whenever, I would recommend just feeding him a breakfast, and dinner and have you're husband feed him, you're husband should start to walk him, not you. You can still love on you're dog but as he is being aggressive towards you're husband, he needs to do the work...have him spend quality time with you're husband.
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