Cynthia-
As someone owning a Gizmo as well, and knowing the name seems to fit the fiesty personality, I'm glad to see you're taking an active approach to getting Gizmo the help he needs. I agree with the others, that hitting is never okay. However, I can see that you are getting your emotions in check and doing what's best for Gizmo and yourself, and that's getting the training that both you and him needs. Let's face it, dog trainers train us more then they train the dog.
With that being said, I think, in fact I know that handling Gizmo, as well as two GSD pups is way, way too much for anyone. I might have missed it, but did you say you were re-homing the GSD pups? I think, with regards to you trying to help Gizmo, that this may be the best thing.
One thing that helped me when I was only getting 3 hours of sleep per night, and had a BYB dog crying and going potty all in his crate, is to try to put yourself in their paws. Remember-and I tell myself this everyday-even though I think Gizmo knows what I'm saying, he has no idea. And for him, that must be just as frustrating as it is for me when he goes potty on the floor.
Keep us updated and good luck! |