Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Tina on December 18, 2008 at 3:44pm

I don't have much experience with what you are describing. When we were looking at a second corgi in early November, we passed on the first one, because she seemed agressive. Ed seemed to play quite well with Ein, but we did find out that he has some slight agression issues when it comes to food and toys with Ein. We still haven't given Ed any high value treats, not until we know that we can trust him.

I guess, what is "too much to handle". Ed barks at all dogs, he still sort of pulls towards other dogs (not in a "I want to attack you way, but I want to meet you way"). They still don't listen to us 100% of the time, but we are still training both of them and they are both young (both around 1 year) We are working on the barking at other dogs, but we let him bark when he is playing. We don't really tolerate him growling over food or toys. They are both potty trained well, so that is a non-concern. But, we have to keep remotes away from Ein and any stuffed toys away from Ed unless we want them shredded.

I think you are doing it the right way though, slowly. See how they do for a day. Just keep in mind that they might be more tired that first day just because of all the excitement, so it might not be a true test.

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Sam on December 18, 2008 at 9:17pm

I would think long and hard about this decision. One thing that would have to change is feeding/treat/toys time. Food aggressive corgis are absolutely merciless to other dogs. Separate feeding quarters are a must! They may also be possessive over treats and toys. One would have to make a comittment to take some training classes and do plenty of walking/outlet for energies. Often times these behaviors are manifested by lack of activity and brain stimulation. They are also most common in homes where rules are pretty much non-existent. Highly consider the time you will have to provide exercise for both dogs, have an extra vet bill to deal with and the ability to keep them separate when they can not be supervised. Good luck and hope this helps in your decision.

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Libby and Dyddy!! on December 19, 2008 at 10:17am

I would defniately enroll him in training classes @ Petsmart. The woman seems a little indifferent towards him, and I've seen her repremand him when he took another dogs toy, shes not very stern or making herself the "Alpha". Hes a very sweet dog- he let me pick him up, give him kisses, but if another dog went near his owner was when he would get nasty and show his teeth.

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Lauren + Winston on December 19, 2008 at 1:27am

aw. that's sad. some people are just so lazy about their dogs.

what i would do is definitely take the two (yours and hers) to a park or something, and let them spend some time together. if they get along, great!

the food aggression can be easily fixed in most dogs. do you know how intense the food aggression is? usually if you talk to a vet about it or maybe a dog psychologist they can help you figure it out. i know when ive watched animal cops (i know, right...) when they get a dog in, they always test them for food aggression. they have a fake hand they will put in the bowl while the dog eats to see if the dog attacks the hand... i would call up your local vet or something like that. if it seems not possible to have the dog, try finding a local corgi rescue. that way, she can give the dog up but give it to a small rescue where the pup wont have to live in a shelter, which can just make aggression problems worse :( i hope everything works out though! it would be exciting to have a new pup.

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Cindi on December 19, 2008 at 12:31pm

I have to agree with Debbie. Most PetSmart trainers are not equipped to handle this problem. AND if the dog is food aggressive, being in class with treats and other dogs may cause a big problem. I've had food aggressive dogs come to class and the minute the treats come out, so does their aggression.

First, I would ask the PetSmart trainer about their experience. And then I would consider private lessons, if you use the PetSmart trainer and he/she has a good bit of experience in dealing with behavioral problems.

If not, contact your corgi club or ask your vet for a recommendation for an animal behaviorist in your area. This dog is going to need some strong training and behavior modification sounds like to me.

Good luck.

• ▶ Reply