My sister had a very similar problem with her dog, Bailey, who is a terrier mix - she got him from a shelter when he was nine months old. They think he had been abused as well. He was frightened and there were a number of incidents with snarling, snapping, and even a couple of bites. She consulted a trainer (who also taught the obedience class Bailey went to), and ultimately, she said that everytime he misbehaves he goes into his kennel. Also, every time he tries to bite, he gets muzzled and put in his kennel. The time he spent in the kennel would depend on him - usually he would cry and whine, but as soon as he calmed down and stopped making noise, he was allowed out, although if the incident was a biting one, he would usually keep the muzzle on for a while.
She also took him for long walks and registered him in obedience, although she made sure to let the instructor know the situation. It was important that he realized that she was in charge.
Bailey just turned five years old, and he is a different dog. He hasn't snarled, or even tried to bite anyone in years. He has taken obedience and agility classes and done well in the all, and met all the other dogs. He nows lives happily with my sister's other dog, a greyhound named Sam. He also adores my sister, and hates it when she's not there. He is a regular visitor to my parents' house, and is absolutely a member of the family.
My point is that it is possible for this dog to be saved. It will take patience and effort on your part, but it is possible. Good Luck! |