Yorkie118, I hope that you will not leave the forum. There are a lot of genuine people here and a lot of good information that you can learn. Please do not take it so personally.
Having said that, when Hot Rod came into our lives I knew nothing about owning a dog much less a yorkie. I have since learned that they definitely like attention and companionship. My vet even told us that there is nothing wrong with putting him in his crate should I need to do so while cooking dinner. I chose not to crate but did get an expen. I wound up blocking off the family room so basically his expen was the family room. He still had his crate in there although he never went back in once he got the freedom to roam. I was fortunate that I was able to be home with him. I would have him in the family room with me while I was doing whatever. I played with him, did exercises with him and taught him tricks. Now I have him and Maggie May in the office with me while I work on the computer. They sit/sleep on my desk, lol.
Dogs/animals are very sensitive and in tune with their owners feelings. You said that you have not connected with him, well, he may be feeling that and not understanding what is going on. All he knows is that his little world is not right and doesn't know how to make it right as he is totally dependent on you. You are the provider of his comfort and well being, if he cannot depend on you for that, then where does that leave him?
Look at things from this perspective...looks a whole lot differnent and gives you a whole different appreciation of what his little mind is going thru. What may make sense to us has not bearing on what he is thinking/feeling. He has a whole different set of values...basic values-food, comfort, pleasure, anxiety and fear. If these are not met, then he doesn't understand. Take things to the basics. You say that you have other dogs-they are all different, just as children.
I don't mean to sound as though I am judging you, I am not but you need to make sure that the dogs basic needs are met, that is all he knows. He doesn't know right from wrong--unless he's taught and then don't expect him to follow it just because you want him to-patience will tested to the limit.
Good luck and I hope you stick around. The good way outweighs the negativity. |