[Aggressive Toward People. :-(]

Agree with greysmom, MaryJane and Turbotaina. Hopefully his veterinary visit will eliminate a medical condition.

 

Yes, tiny bits of meat or other rare (for him) high value treats that can be gently dropped on the floor near him (without sudden swinging arm movements). Progress to guests feeding treats by hand when he's ready for closer contact but without a human leaning over him.

 

Another thought: Some medications have unintended side effects that increase aggressive behavior in otherwise calm dogs.

 

Just curious to understand more about Raylan's obedience training, and if certain exercises were more difficult than others for him?

 

Greyhounds are late to mature from puppyhood. Age 3 is just beginning their true maturity. Typically, healthy hounds who are not feeling body pain or fear are fairly friendly or tolerant of people and playful at times. That said, understanding dogs' body language and respecting their space is important. Recently retired Greyhounds are not accustomed to sharing their resting space. An injured dog would feel even more hypersensitive about being stepped on by people walking too closely to his/her bed. Dogs often feel threatened by humans leaning over dogs, reaching over a dog's head to pet them, direct eye contact, etc.

 

Considering Raylan's specific situations listed, the one that is surprising is when he went out of his way to address your friend coming out of the bathroom. I wonder if Raylan might have been surprised having forgotten a visitor was in the house(?).

 

Below are a few helpful links beginning with dogs' calming signals (early signs of dogs' discomfort). Keep in mind that Greyhounds' ears naturally lie flat against their heads, tails often hang relaxed and low. Some Greyhounds lift their lips showing teeth to "smile" when feeling joyful (often mistaken for aggression), or chatter their teeth when happy.

 

Canine Calming Signals: http://www.greenacreskennel.com/dog-behavior-and-training/canine-calming-signals-and-stress

 

Canine Body Language: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/virtual-pet-behaviorist/dog-behavior/canine-body-language

 

Patricia McConnell is the author of The Other End of the Leash (mentioned by greysmom): www.patriciamcconnell.com

[Activity/exercise In The Heat]

Our younger hounds enjoy playing hide and seek by chasing us up/down fully carpeted stairs in the house. Interactive treat puzzles, scent games (hide plain boxes turned over with different treats or toys inside the house), etc.

 

Tip: Whenever playing chase games, encourage dog/s to chase their human (not the other way around). If the hound ever gets loose, you want the dog to be used to the fun game of running towards you (not away from you).

[Snapping]

Hopefully, Harry's outings are improving a little since your OP, but thought I'd respond anyway. GTers have offered excellent advice about earning Harry's trust in a positive, respectful and loving way. Greyhounds are a very sensitive breed. They learn well when we can capture and reward their natural movements to shape desired "family pet" behaviors.

 

As others mentioned, might help to time potty outings when he's already standing up for a meal, etc. If he's not comfortable eating meals from your hands, he's likely still feeling too much distrust. Hand feeding meals works well when the human sits on the floor with human's head turned away (looking away from the dog). Dog is standing up. This way, a human is not leaning over the dog in a threatening way or appearing threatening by direct eye/face contact.

 

Please be careful to not challenge a hound with a human bossy/alpha attitude or it will force him to communicate his discomfort by acting more aggressively to make his point (bites). Negatively challenging dogs can change their temperaments by teaching them to distrust people now and in the future.

 

A few of other considerations:

 

Were you able to determine the root cause/s of Harry's discomfort about being outside?

Examples:

Weather too hot or rainy for the temperature sensitive Greyhound breed. (If hot, time outings in coolest times of day.)

Possible body soreness/pain from a previous injury, and/or from being picked-up.

Possible paw pad pain from a corn or foreign body sliver.

(A painful paw pad might become more obvious when a dog is walking on a hard surface vs. soft grass or carpeting.)

Previous or current walks too long for a recently retired racer who is physically accustomed to only 30-second short sprints (vs. having had months to build longer pet walking endurance, and building up tougher paw pads).

General fear of too much emotional stimulation outside in a new, scary environment (away from his old familiar kennel and mates).

Isolated fear/s of a particular scary thing or loud noise.

 

If outside fears are more likely his difficulty, make his new world much smaller so he isn't pushed beyond his comfort level.

Fear/stress hormones can become magnified, and last for days when animals are pushed beyond their comfort threshold. Better to wait for him to become completely comfortable and confident within his own small family environment before taking tiny baby steps in the world beyond.

 

I'd agree to skip walks and limit his potty area to just outside the house door until he feels more comfortable in his environment.

 

It's helpful to carefully watch dogs on medication to ensure the medication is affecting that individual dog as intended. Some anxiety medications work well on some dogs, but might increase anxiety in other dogs.

 

Hard to answer your question re: petting him while resting on the humans' bed, and him becoming restless. Watch closely for his early canine signals of discomfort. Most newly retired Greys are not accustomed to excessive petting, nor do they particularly enjoy it. Greyhounds are creatures of habit and routine. Harry might have felt uncomfortable up on the humans' bed, or sensed that it was an odd time of day to be upstairs, or concerned that he might miss another family member leave the house, etc. (One of our hounds becomes very restless if night bedtime is delayed for some reason.)

[Feeding Raw Food/meat To Dogs?]

I simply found it interesting and informative information since so many dog owners recommend feeding raw foods. I was a bit surprised so many professional veterinary organizations discouraged feeding raw.

 

Balancing scientific pros and cons might be helpful to some people, particularly those with young children or elders in the home. Alert owners being aware of food borne pathogen symptoms in pets could help their vets diagnose medical issues more quickly, particularly if an owner had not mentioned feeding raw foods.

 

Understandably, there are recalls of many human foods, pet foods, and drug products every day but we're fortunate to have FDA testing.

[Shanti (Bella Fiala) 1/22/04-7/5/15]

I'm so very sorry that your beautful Shanti has crossed the bridge. May she always remain close at heart.

 

(I remember a lively, well-written story about a gifted critter in the sofa, but couldn't remember whose hound was so thoughtful. Now I see it was Shanti's story.)

 

[Pistol Aka Fth Son Of A Gun 5/27/2005 - 7/20/2015]

Oh no, I'm so very sorry you've all lost your boy, Pistol. Our thoughts are with you all.

 

May Pistol be enveloped in the love of all his angel siblings over the bridge.

 

[Newbie - What Are Good Toys For Young Pup?]

Tuffie toys are excellent as semi-soft, yet very durable toys: http://www.tuffietoys.com/

We like the doughnut shaped Tuffie toys that do not look like animals (or our cats). Our toys have lasted for many years through all of our own Greyhounds and down to 18 month old fosters.

 

Cat toys are dangerous to have around dogs and puppies. Cats' toys are so small, a puppy or dog can easily ingest them causing an internal blockage. We keep all cat toys locked away, and brought out only for supervised kitty play sessions when the dogs are safely separated in a different room. The only cat toys allowed out (in limited rooms) are small plain pieces of paper wadded up into small balls. (If the older dogs find one, they usually just shred apart a paper ball.)

 

Puppies try to eat everything and should be supervised around toys. They often chew apart and ingest soft squeaky toys or tennis balls.

 

By the way, please be careful to not allow her to chase your cat/s. Cats are too easily looked upon as a fun, live squeaky toy.

 

Congratulation on your new little girl!

[Why Is She Snapping?]

She could be trying to communicate that she's feeling emotionally or physically flooded by too much handling. Safest for you to back away and let her rest peacefully without being touched.

 

If her hot water bottle needs to be moved from her bed, try happily calling her to "come" to you in another area or another room (e.g., kitchen for a special treat). After she vacates her bed, pick up/move the hot water bottle.

 

We try to respect a golden rule for dogs: Let resting dogs lie undisturbed. We wait for dogs to stand up and come to us for attention. Their bed is considered their safe, undisturbed zone. Since your girl required early medical care, perhaps you could back track a bit now to allow her more personal space which will help build her trust in you.

 

That said, I haven't seen your other thread/s yet.

[Feeding Raw Food/meat To Dogs?]

It's one of those things where people will always claim is unhealthy voodoo, until they take the leap and see the benefits for themselves.

 

Just think of all the money the kibble companies are missing out just from my two greyhounds.

 

It appears there were fifty five scientific resources used to develop American Veterinary Medical Association's policy alone.

 

I doubt the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention, etc. cares in the least about earnings of kibble companies. Human public health safety, and the health of pets is the primary concern. If it were not, there would be no FDA recalls. People and animals can die from salmonella related illnesses. (I knew an otherwise healthy middle age person who was long hospitalized and nearly died from it.) It often affects children, people with compromised immune systems, and the elderly.

 

Side note: It's my understanding that medical doctors for humans now recommend placing raw meat directly from the package into a pan for cooking up to the meat's recommended safe temperature, instead of rinsing off raw meat in the sink which contaminates a wider area.

[Oh Mercy! Meet Percy!]

Congratulations! I'm happy you found another wonderfully special boy to join your family!

He can finally relax and enjoy a bit cooler climate.

[Feeding Raw Food/meat To Dogs?]

Interesting share. The following professional veterinary organizations discourage feeding raw meat to dogs. Last quote includes symptoms of salmonella infection in dogs. Salmonella (and other organisms) in raw meat that are shed in dogs' stools can survive for weeks or longer in the environment.

1. American Veterinary Medical Association

2. The American Animal Hospital Association

3. American College of Veterinary Nutritionists

4. National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians

5. U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention

6. U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Etc...

-----

Raw or Undercoocked Animal-Source Protein in Dog Diets: https://www.avma.org/kb/policies/pages/raw-or-undercooked-animal-source-protein-in-cat-and-dog-diets.aspx

-----

All text below is quoted with links noted.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) make the following statement on their website:

 

Raw diets, especially raw meat diets, are not recommended because of the risk for salmonellosis and other infections that can affect pets and their owners.

The American College of Veterinary Nutritionists (ACVN), in a FAQ document on its website, makes the following statement:

Raw diets, both home-prepared and commercial, have become more popular. Advocates of raw diets claim benefits ranging from improved longevity to superior oral or general health and even disease resolution (especially gastrointestinal disease). Often the benefits of providing natural enzymes and other substances that may be altered or destroyed by cooking are also cited. However, proof for these purported benefits is currently restricted to testimonials, and

no published peer-reviewed studies exist to support claims made by raw diet advocates

. No studies have examined differences in animals fed raw animal products to those fed any other type of diet (kibble, canned, or home cooked) with the exception of looking at the effects on digestibility. Typically raw meats (but not other uncooked foods like grains or starches) are slightly more digestible than cooked meat.

There are risks and concerns associated with the feeding of raw diets. One of these is the risk of

nutritional imbalances

, which is a reality for both home-prepared and commercial raw meat diets. Another important risk is related to

bacterial or parasitic contamination

. Of course, food poisoning is also a major concern for people, and the public health aspects of feeding raw foods to pets cannot be overlooked. Safe and proper handling of raw foods is crucial for reducing the risk, but safety cannot be guaranteed. At this time, the vast majority of purported benefits of feeding raw foods remain unproven, while the

risks and consequences have been documented

. It is best to discuss the choice of feeding raw foods with your veterinarian so that an informed decision can be made with regard to your pet’s diet.

----

The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) approved a

policy

in August 2012 that discourages feeding raw meat to pets. The National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians (NASPHV) and American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) both endorsed the AAHA statement. The policy was developed independently of the AVMA’s position, but was shared with AVMA prior to posting on the website.

Source: https://www.avma.org/KB/Resources/FAQs/Pages/Raw-Pet-Foods-and-the-AVMA-Policy-FAQ.aspx

-----

Raw Pet Foods and the AVMA Policy FAQs:

Q: How would I know if my pet becomes infected with Salmonella from its food?

A: There are many sources of Salmonella. Because the organism can persist in the environment for weeks, even after thorough cleaning, the exact source of your animal’s illness (if it is the food) may be long gone. Animals with salmonellosis may show some or all of the following signs:

• Lethargy
• Decreased appetite
• Fever
• Vomiting
• Excess salivation (in cats)
• Diarrhea (may contain blood or mucus)

Also be aware that pets may be infected with Salmonella but may not appear to be sick. Salmonella bacteria can be shed in your pet’s stool for 4 to 6 weeks, and possibly longer, after infection. If you suspect your pet is ill, contact your veterinarian.

If your pet is infected with Salmonella and is shedding the bacteria in their stool, it’s also possible for people to become infected by contact with their infected pet’s fur, mouth, or feet – as well as anything that can come in contact with your pet’s stool. You can find Salmonella essentially anywhere the animal has been. Salmonella can survive for weeks or even years given the right environmental conditions (temperature, pH, humidity).

Source: https://www.avma.org/KB/Resources/FAQs/Pages/Raw-Pet-Foods-and-the-AVMA-Policy-FAQ.aspx

End quotes.

 

ETA: AVMA's resource list: https://www.avma.org/KB/Resources/Reference/Pages/References-for-the-AVMA-policy-on-raw-pet-foods.aspx

[Odd Behavior From New Greyhound]

I'd set him up for success by letting him sleep in a secured X-pen or large crate in your bedroom for several weeks while he adjusts to family life. A baby-gate works well if you can create a space where he still feels he's in the family's sleeping room.

Agree with JJNG's post.

[Bernie And I Got Attacked On Our Walk]

This is so sad. It must have been extremely frightening; plus, you and Bernie enduring the ongoing physical pain from your wounds. Please let us know how both of your recoveries progress.

 

I agree that this was not your fault. Most sadly, you were right about the Beagle's poor treatment by the (possibly unknowing?) owner. Dominance training/handling has long been proven to cause and/or increase aggression in animals, but many pet owners aren't aware of that. The Beagle could have been born a sweet tempered dog, but human aggression begets animal aggression.

 

You might be interested in this short article:

http://vetmedicine.about.com/b/2009/07/07/veterinary-behaviorists-take-a-stand-against-cesar-millan.htm

 

You and Bernie will be in our healing thoughts. I hope his swelling/infection can be controlled soon.

 

Many excellent responses in this thread. I agree to snap photos now, and during your recovery.

[Lora Ate The Stuffing From A Hedgehog]

Could be worth a call to a vet.

 

I knew a Greyhound who died from ingesting a sock (obstruction).

[Mikey 5/30/02 - 6/20/15]

Oh, I'm so very sorry for your loss of sweet Mikey.

 

Thank you for giving him a wonderfully loving final 6+ months of his life. Mikey held a special place in my heart from the time you brought him home. He will be missed.

 

[Iker's Neck Is Bleeding]

I wonder if his collar irritated his scar, or if he's scratching it with his nails. If you don't already use a harness on him, I imagine you've considered or tried them. Iker is such a lucky boy to be alive, and living with you.

[My Dear Niles Has Joined The Rainbow Bridge]

Ben, I'm deeply sorry for your loss of your beloved companion, Niles. Mel was so kind to post about him over the years. He was such a handsome boy. My heart goes out to you, and to Niles' extended family who also loved him. May your happy memories with Niles offer heartfelt comfort. Thinking of you during this difficult time.

 

[Greyhounds And Chemo]

I'm so very sorry for your difficult loss of Tommy. It seems that he was deeply loved and so fortunate to have had such a caring family. Our sincere condolences to you and your family during this most difficult loss of your only pet family member.

 

Godspeed sweet Tommy.

 

Thank you for thoughtfully returning to your thread to update us.

(If desired, please feel free to post more about Tommy in Remembrance. Moderators often lock H&M threads after a dog has passed.)

[Is My Greyhound Actually Perspiring?]

I'm so sorry about your girl's declining health.

 

This may not help your girl; however, one of our Greyhounds has hemangiosarcoma, and is an excessive bleeder. (Excessive bleeding is not uncommon in Greyhounds.) If needed, please ensure your vet is aware of Amicar (Aminocaproic Acid). Our three excessive bleeders receive Aminocaproic Acid for all surgeries (including minor dental extractions) and for 4 to 5 days post-surgery. Many Greyhounds can appear to be okay upon leaving the hospital, but can begin bleeding internally anytime within 4 days of recovery. Our hemangiosarcoma hound has bled internally when not associated with a surgery also.

 

If needed, Aminocaproic Acid is available in liquid form (beef flavor) from a compounding pharmacy,

or in tablet form from a human pharmacy. Costco's pharmacy offers least expensive tablets that we've found. If your local pharmacies don't keep it in stock, it can take 3-4 days to order.

 

Positive thoughts for your girl.

[Hates Potassium Bromide Liquid... Help?]

No avocados please. Avocados are toxic to dogs and cats.

[Splits]

Unfortunately, Greyhounds have had serious injuries from those falls. I'd suggest calling your e-vet hospital and ask to speak with a nurse. (I'm not a vet, I'd hesitate to suggest pain medication in case it interferes with the vet's exam/test/treatment program.)

 

Positive healing thoughts for Bessie.

 

(BTW, if you don't have carpet, cheap runner rugs with gripper pads, or rubber-backed area rugs can help hounds keep their legs more controlled than on hard surface floors.)

[Seasonal Allergies? Or Ear Mites?]

Perhaps consider asking your vet if Gambler needs an appt. now (before you attempt to self-treat). If so, ask if you can pay the bill next week (or hold off on charging your credit card until next week)?

 

It could be something more serious like a ruptured eardrum, or a serious infection that requires prescription medication. In the meantime, please don't let him go swimming.

[Greytalker June- Mom To Nova, Rona And Dinky]

I'm so saddened to read this news. Barb's posts will certainly be missed on GreyTalk. I can only imagine how much it meant for her to be able to go home to be with her dogs during her final days in hospice care. I'm relieved that she was able to arrange placement for them so she could pass more peacefully.

 

Our sincere condolences to her family and friends. Godspeed this kind-hearted woman. May she rest in peace.

 

(It's much appreciated that the news of her passing reached her GT friends. Thanks to all who helped that happen.)

[How To Discourage Jumping]

Agree with others to turn away and ignore his jumping behavior. Dogs do what works for them. If they don't reap any reward (your attention in this case), they'll learn to stop the undesirable behavior.

 

Happily excited hounds who jump up want to be at their human's face height. Here, instead of allowing them to jump up, I go down to their level to reward them with attention when they're standing 4-legs-on-the-floor. Works like a charm.

[Mass On Neck]

Thank you for letting us know. Yes, so relieved it's not cancer.

 

Just sharing a few thoughts...

 

Perhaps installing a strong, tall baby-gate would be safer, and potentially allow the kitchen door to remain open so he can feel a little more included in the family when his people aren't in the kitchen(?).

 

If the rugs are not already rubber-backed, adding rubber rug-gripper mats (to go under area rugs) helps prevent rug slippage. They're fairly cheap at home center stores like Home Depot.

 

You are being so kind to sleep with him now. I understand it's not easy moving an immobile hound.

If interested, we use a dog body wrap called "Walk-a-Bout" (neoprene) to help our immobile Greyhounds go outside to potty. Other GTers have used a special harness.

 

We're sending positive thoughts your way, and rapid healing energy for your sweet boy.