 Barked: Wed Oct 10, '12 9:28am PST |
 | |  | | First, get well...heal!
Second, been there. A good GSD is bred to be an Eveready Bunny... they are SUPPOSED to be able to go at a [GSD] trot all day... every day. The energy is potentially boundless 
The only way you can reasonably wear them down is with mental stimulation. Others have posted some great ideas. I'll add... while in adolescence (which might continue, depending on your dog, through to 3 or so  ), don't neglect obedience training in general and focus training in particular. A bored GSD is a really bad idea... lol. They can find 'hobbies'.
On 3 November, Charks will be 6(!). We mostly function as a team. Energy level? Still off the wall... We walk 5-6 miles per day and go to classes 3 days per week (2 agility classes and 1 therapy dog/situational obedience class). IF I am unable (family or other commitments) to walk and exercise her, we use a really good group daycare/boarding facility. Charks is dog friendly, so this works well for humans and canine. The mental stimulation is what wears her out. It's hard work interacting with a group of dogs... much more work than the physical play.
We continue to work together. Charka and I have learned how to live and work together. I truly cannot imagine a better canine partner... and I DO laugh when I remember how we've gotten to this place. I also have no desire to relive it  |  |  | |  |
|
| my posts | my page | msg me | gift me | become pals | [notify] |
1
I have empathy for all of you dealing with difficult adolescent and/or upset dogs.
you will do fine and get through it in time. I am pleased to say that I am very fortunate that Kai seems to have finally decided to start growing up,a true gift since he just turned 3 and weighs well over 100 pounds.
I think I'll take him for a ride tied to the back of my car. (just kidding, I would never do that). I don't care if it's 40 degrees tomorrow, out comes the kiddie pool. Asher I tried your suggestion of the Dr. Karen Overall's Protocols for Relaxation. He couldn't focus. I won't give up. I'll try a little each day and try to extend it. Maybe once I find someone to walk him and get the pepper out of his butt, his focus will come back. He's really driving me........... Thanks for everyone's support.
