[kjc]

Originally Posted by jsbart

Thanks for your advice. I can tell you put a lot of thought into it. As I stated before, I've definitely come to the conclusion that what I was doing was wrong and have spent the last two days trying to make amends by showing probably too much attention. However, he has been so much better for the last two days, but I will try to tone it down and not pay him so much attention. I guess I was just trying to atone for my misguided behavior. You know, it's almost like he knows that I've come to an understanding that I was doing more harm than good.

I do want to say that he started behaving this way long before I tried to show him I was in charge. I felt like he became dominant maybe because I showed him more attention than he was used to. When it seemed to get worse, is when I tried to make him submissive which only made him fearful. I was pretty much at the end of ideas as to how to approach the problem. I think I may continue to keep him out of the bathroom. It hasn't seemed to make him feel threatened and in fact he has chosen to be with me more since he can't go to his "cave". I have two other dogs who stay in the house also and hope maybe since they are stable and calm some of their attitude will rub off on him. This may sound crazy but his facial expression has gone from looking mean to looking sweet again. Again, thanks for your thoughts and maybe soon he will be calmer and more relaxed. I think it's just in his nature to be anxious and I'm not expecting miracles--just want us both to be happy.

Sounds like you're on the right track... great to see such a fast turnaround! Keep us posted...