[nagdu] Stress Issues

[Julie J.]

Lora,

My thoughts in order that they occurred to me.  My first thought about 
the shedding was that it might just be normal getting rid of the summer 
coat in readiness for the winter coat.  This will depend on what breed 
of dog you have and where you live and the weather there.  My second 
thought was to see the vet.  Excessive shedding can be from a thyroid 
problem among other things.  Simple bloodwork can rule out a thyroid 
issue.  If it is that there is pretty inexpensive medication that can help.

Then after reading more of the messages on this topic, I would suggest 
more exercise.  He sounds like a really high energy dog that has 
leftover energy he doesn't know what to do with.   The shedding may or 
may not be related to stress and the behaviors, but more exercise 
certainly won't hurt.

Exercise ideas:  long walks, a treadmill, interactive toys or playing 
fetch down a long hall or set of stairs. Also if you have a local dog 
club agility just for fun might be fun.  Fly ball is also a fun dog 
sport if you can find a local group that will let you practice with 
them.  If you know someone with a well behaved dog to set up a play date 
that may help.  A large fenced in area where he can run is good if he 
will run and play on his own.   I don't know how you might feel about 
this one, but some dogs love to chase a flashlight beam in a semi dark 
room.  I also like to dance with Monty in the winter months when we 
can't get out as much.  It isn't dancing at all, instead it is actually 
practice getting into heel position on my left side as I move around the 
room in random patterns.  I give a treat when he's at my left side.  I 
toss the treat so he has to get out of heel position to get it, which 
sets him up for the next opportunity.

T-touch or massage are also good ways to quietly relax after a long 
day.  I'm no expert at T-touch despite what Tami says!  I have just read 
the book a few times and have practiced with my own dogs.  It really 
does work.

I can't imagine living with an adult dog with the sorts of behavior 
issues you are describing.  It's what I'd expect from a puppy.  I feel 
your pain.  I hope you can get it sorted out.

Best of luck,
Julie




On 9/5/2011 10:08 AM, Lora wrote:
> Hello List:
> I know we've probably had this discussion before but I would
> appreciate it if we could have it again. My dog is loosing a lot of
> hair and I think it is due to stress since he is on a good diet. I
> can't trust him off leash since he doesn't listen at all. I have tried
> letting him play on a flexilead but he won't run around. I play with
> him tug of war and other games like that but I don't think he's
> getting enough stress out of his life. Do you have any suggestions?
> Thank You.
>