“Your request has been denied”

June 13, 2014 | 3 Comments

So, Nia has been taking on some overly attached behaviors and the consensus has been to work on teaching her that there is little to no difference between what home is like if people are there or she’s alone and that if we love on her all day when we’re home, we are teaching her to be dependent on us. The remedy? give her about 10 minutes of lovin’s per hour and basically ignore her the rest of the time–let her gain comfort in not having a hand on her or patting her head.

So, Nia and I had us a little sit down (see pic 1–she listened intently)

And the notion was outright denied (see pic 2)

3 Comments so far

benny55 on June 13, 2014 4:21 am Reply
Oh Nia, sweet, sweet Nia! How could anyone be in your presence and NOT love on you?! You are soooooo sweet!

I saw all the responses to your post on separation anxiety. I think everyone has to give Nia a little slack. Fear of abandonment s HUGE among shelter dogs. And then to use withholding love as a “therapy” on a dog who clearly sees your famiy as the only source of love and kindness she jas ever kown…..cannot imagine how she would process that!

Anuway, keep researching. I’m sure there are msny differing opinions. For me, I would look for the onr that allows you to continue to show her what love is!

God luck!! Amd keep those adorable pictures coming!

Hugs and snuggles!

Sally and Happy Hannah
jerry on June 13, 2014 9:34 pm Reply
Ok I know it’s hard, but a little tough love goes sooooo far. We had to practice it with Wyatt, and still do, in order to keep him from harming himself and destroying our home. Dogs need a strong leader, they need to know everything is going to be fine and the way to do that is with firm, consistent training that results in them feeling confident. It’s an incredibly difficult thing to do but when you don’t it’s not a good scene. Hang in there and be strong.
sebastian on June 14, 2014 2:41 pm Reply
Too stinking cute!! I’m a little biased when it comes to black labs with big noses and beautiful brown eyes 🙂

My pup has some separation anxiety too. Crate training helped significantly but he still has his moments. You’ll get through it!!