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| My mom's dog; Brainstorming | |
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| Tweet Topic Started: Nov 5 2012, 07:36 PM (277 Views) | |
| FlashGordon | Nov 5 2012, 07:36 PM Post #1 |
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You're BANNED!
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My mom has this BC/Hound mix that she got last spring on a whim after her two dogs passed within a few months of each other (they were 14.) It was a bad idea and I told her so, but she didn't listen. She is a cool dog-- incredibly smart... maybe the smartest dog I've ever met... super athletic, and fun. But she got very big, about 70lbs, and is very high energy and very athletic.Unfortunately, my mom's big house and big yard is not even enough to keep her busy. She is also a LOT of dog and often overwhelming for my 65 year old mom to deal with. She makes me crazy but I actually kind of like her... however she is quirky. She adored my mom's terrier whom she lived with for a short time, but can randomly be dog-aggressive. She also has a very strong herding instinct. When she is excited she has a tendency to jump and nip. She's so freaking smart I think some of these issues could be overcome with some intensive training, but my mom sure isn't able to give it to the dog. Not to mention a lot more exercise would help a ton. My mom has hinted that perhaps we should take her when we move to the farm. I am not sure I really want to, only because I worry particularly about the herding instinct with kids and horses around. Also the one time we attempted to introduce her to Daisy Rainbow, things didn't go so well. DR is goofy, sweet and submissive but Heidi was NOT impressed. We haven't tried again. I'm not really sure what to do here. I need to talk to my mom and see if she is committed to trying to work things out, or if we should seriously consider re-homing her. She'd be a pretty amazing dog for an active, dog-savvy person who wants a very intelligent devoted companion. I think she'd be difficult to re-home, and I want her to have a good chance in life, but I am not sure if I should take that kind of project on. Then again, maybe I am over-thinking... with all the land we will have, she may get enough exercise to appropriately wear her out and we may see some of these behavioral issues disappear. Anyway... just thought some of you more experienced with these BC types might have some insight. Edited by FlashGordon, Nov 5 2012, 07:37 PM.
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| Trialbyfire | Nov 6 2012, 04:46 AM Post #2 |
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You're BANNED!
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I read your description and thought - wow, she's an awesome dog! But, I agree, not for your mom. An to be brutally honest - not for you either. "Bring her to the farm".... bad idea... if she was 11 and really just hung out by mess hall begging for scraps...maybe. However, that's not what it sounds like she would be like - and she doesn't need more *room*, she needs more training and activities. Unless you had the time for her (which you don't and will have even less once the camp comes together), you might find she's a big problem. What about asking Witchy's mom for help? Maybe they have contacts in the area? She sounds like a great type of dog - I think there are probably people who would really like a "bigger" version of a border collie or terrier....? You might be surprised that she could be an easier re-home than you think. |
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| FlashGordon | Nov 6 2012, 07:07 AM Post #3 |
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You're BANNED!
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Thanks TBF as that was *exactly* my concern. She really needs someone who wants to give their full attention to her. She is the kind of dog that will be utterly devoted to her person. If I were single and without kids, I'd love to have her, but even though we will have a ton of space I fear she will still lack the interaction/engagement she needs. And good point about Witchy, since I know her mom has BC experience. I know my mom loves her... but man, is it the wrong match. I will have to discuss with her further and see what she wants to do. My mom's had some health issues and dealing with the dog is only going to get harder. |
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| WhySoSerious | Nov 6 2012, 07:56 AM Post #4 |
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Off visiting Candy Cave, be right back.
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I agree with what's already been posted. The dog needs someone with a very active and busy lifestyle. Border Collies are wonderful dogs, but they are definitely the type that need a job. Does your mom just want a dog as a companion? |
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| FlashGordon | Nov 6 2012, 08:50 AM Post #5 |
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You're BANNED!
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WSS, yes she lives alone and likes the company... she's had dogs her entire life and is a good dog owner, but, she's not into training beyond housebreaking and basic manners. This dog needs a lot of mental stimulation, all the time. She's a really cool dog, but she's big, busy, and just a lot for my mom to handle. I *told* her to get another Westie... she loved her's to pieces... but she thought she wanted another medium sized dog. Heidi has grown up to be rather large and a lot more energy than my mom bargained for. She would be an *amazing* agility partner. She is freakishly smart and you should see her catch a frisbee! I'm glad you guys agree in terms of me taking her on. I like the dog, but don't think her living with us is necessarily the solution either. |
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| WhySoSerious | Nov 6 2012, 09:00 AM Post #6 |
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Off visiting Candy Cave, be right back.
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I have owned two chihuahuas and they have both been fabulous companions. They enjoy walks, but are fine just hanging around the house too. One big downside to a Chihuahua though, or any other tiny dog, is they sometimes nip at children, which I know would be a concern for your family. Our mini schnauzer is a nice dog too. Has a bit more energy, but is easy going and would never think about nipping at anyone. |
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| Witchy | Nov 6 2012, 09:47 AM Post #7 |
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You're BANNED!
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Friends of Pep Border Collie Rescue 570-842-4768 She could probably pick out another companion dog while she is there. |
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| FlashGordon | Nov 6 2012, 12:56 PM Post #8 |
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You're BANNED!
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Thanks Witchy, I will pass the info along to her. I appreciate it! |
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| JanM | Nov 6 2012, 05:49 PM Post #9 |
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Off visiting Candy Cave, be right back.
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I agree with everyone else. A dog with that much energy, the need for massive amounts of training, and exercise, and with a tendency to herd and nip would be a disaster at the camp. And your insurance would shoot through the roof. You do not need to have your first big publicity at the camp be a dog nip lawsuit, and it will happen, or she'll scare a horse with the same litigious result. That dog needs a new home with more exercise, discipline and attention, and you mom needs a Westie or Mini Schnauzer as others suggested. |
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She is a cool dog-- incredibly smart... maybe the smartest dog I've ever met... super athletic, and fun. But she got very big, about 70lbs, and is very high energy and very athletic.



7:22 AM Jul 11