Some dogs are easier to foster than others. Jessie's saving grace is that his attractiveness is in inverse porportion to his behavior, ergo... he's rotten, but very cute! The saving grace of all babies really.
Every day, Jessie continues to show improvement. Although Ken & I have taken the lead on it, I realize that all of the animals in our home also contribute to Jessie's rehabilitation.
Louie - has taught Jessie that cats are NOT to be messed with. Two days ago, Louie chased Jessie around the house. Stalked him & swatted him... until he had Jessie cowering in a corner of the bathroom. Normally, we wouldn't allow this behaviour, but Jessies continued aggression required more, more, more in the way of natural corrections.
Diesel - the first to stand up to this little bully. Diesel is a social climber & is thrilled to finally be allowed to dominate someone else! I've been very proud of Diesel as I watch him correct firmly, but without crossing the line.
Brynn - after allowing almost a dozen lunge/attacks, she's decided that Jessie isn't allowed near her. She's teaching Jessie that a growl means back off or you will be sorry... a lesson I'm not sure Jessie has experienced before.
Bo - poor, scared, Bo-baby. 130lbs of muscle, 600lbs of jaw force... and he's frighted of a puppy! Bo gives Jessie the opportuntity to learn how to interact with a submissive dog. Bo knows that he's to be quiet in the house... so we've started focusing on letting Bo play with the puppy outside. Outside, Bo chases Jessie barking and doing the play bow. Jessie doesn't seem to able to read this as play behaviour and runs away... but maybe with time...
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