I am going to say "No", EVERYONE has to do it. If you aren't there for long periods of time, just correct Syd the same way your fiance does. I really don't want to keep going back to "children", but if the person who is home all day with the children make them behave one way and the other parent comes home at night and lets them do whatever they want, they will probably end up with confused little monsters (I mean that in the nicest way) on their hands. Don't feel bad for sticking to something that doesn't make you feel good for awhile. You will be able to enjoy your dog a lot more if you get him under control. You must be a little nervous with Syd's behavior around others or small children, right? We have to remember that we are AS responsible for them as we are for our children...if they do something wrong...we have to pay the price (emotionally and financially). I would try placing my thumb in his mouth with your other fingers under his jaw and apply a little pressure and say NO, NO in the deep monotone voice. Too many words won't be learned, just mostly 2-3 word commands at first. If he tries to bite you afterward, don't use that method. But if he just tries to get your thumb out of his mouth, it should work for you eventually. Remember, not too much pressure, just enough to irritate him. Let me know how this works for you.
Julz |