Question: I am the owner of a 7-year-old Shih Tzu. In the past, she has been a very anxiety-ridden-take charge-protector. Last year, my husband passed and, right after that, my other Shih Tzu passed. I have a 14-month-old granddaughter, and Tashy has never been comfortable around children, other dogs, or anyone who comes to our house. She has never bitten anyone. I have a dogsitter for her when I’m away. This time she gnawed at the wood railing. It has been suggested that I sedate her. Help! – Linda
Answer: Tashy has been through a lot in the past year. It makes sense that she is more anxious when you depart. You are right to be worried about her with your granddaughter, because she has a history of anxiety, is not comfortable around children and is a protector. Although I am not totally sure what behavior “protector” is meant to describe in Tashy’s case, it is usually code for “aggressive” (lunging, biting, barking or snapping).
Children are the most common bite victims, and they are most often bitten by dogs they know. If more people thought as you are about how to prevent bites instead of reacting when the dog is already acting aggressively, fewer kids would be bitten, so kudos to you. Tashy should see a veterinary behaviorist because she has multiple problems that are anxiety driven and she has shown aggression. You can find one at www.dacvb.org. Until you can make an appointment, there are a couple of things that you can do to help Tashy relax a little.
Purchase the book Living with Kids and Dogs. This is a good preparatory book for people whose dogs have to live with kids. It is a two-way street, and kids have to be respectful of dogs. The book covers that, too. Keep your dog separated from your granddaughter until you can be seen for an appointment.
It is most likely what Tashy wants and you really shouldn’t take any chances until you have a good plan in order. Makes sure you leave Tashy with something fabulous to chew on or eat when you leave the house, to pair your departure with something good. Try not to make a big deal of departures and returns, so she doesn’t make a big deal of it either. Encourage her to be independent by ignoring any following behavior that she does and reinforcing her when she is lying relaxed away from you.
Dr. Radosta
Lisa Radosta DVM, Diplomate ACVB
Florida Veterinary Behavior Service
PO Box 210636
Royal Palm Beach, FL 33421-0636
561-795-9398
www.flvetbehavior.com
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