Great news! The previously deemed ‘aggressive’ dog at our clinic will no longer be euthanized, thanks to your advice! This 3-year-old female mixed breed, likely with herding lineage, weighs about 40 pounds. She was initially relinquished for her so-called aggressive behavior, which includes nipping and growling—behaviors typical of herding breeds rather than true aggression. I’ve worked closely with her and found her to be anxious rather than malicious, showing discomfort with excessive petting. My discussions with management have opened a window for rehoming her, but as a busy college student, I need advice on resources or rescue groups that specialize in herding breeds or have experience with behaviorally challenged dogs. Any suggestions on fostering programs or potential adopters would be greatly appreciated.
It’s essential to recognize that herding behaviors, such as nipping, are instinctual and not aggressive. A knowledgeable owner, familiar with breeds like Heelers or Border Collies, would understand her needs better.
Unfortunately, it’s challenging for rescues to take in dogs labeled for behavioral euthanasia due to the risks and responsibilities involved.
This dog needs a job! Obedience training or dog sports like agility and herding trials could be crucial. It sounds like her previous owners didn’t understand the demands of a herding breed.
Amanda said:
This dog needs a job! Obedience training or dog sports like agility and herding trials could be crucial. It sounds like her previous owners didn’t understand the demands of a herding breed.
Agreed. It’s a real problem when people acquire dogs for their looks without considering their behavioral needs and care requirements.
@Vale
Too many people choose pets based on looks rather than fit for their lifestyle, which often leads to such tragic situations.
@Vale
Exactly, and the breeders should also ensure that potential owners are well-prepared for the commitment a border collie entails.
Amanda said:
@Vale
Exactly, and the breeders should also ensure that potential owners are well-prepared for the commitment a border collie entails.
I’m hopeful that with more awareness and the growing network of foster homes, we can find a better solution for her.
Finding a farm or a home that understands working breeds could be key. It might be tough, but you’re learning a valuable lesson about the harsh realities of veterinary euthanasia.
Vince said:
Finding a farm or a home that understands working breeds could be key. It might be tough, but you’re learning a valuable lesson about the harsh realities of veterinary euthanasia.
A farm home without young children might be ideal, as it would prevent the dog from being returned again for her instinctive behaviors.
Contact rescues that specialize in herding breeds like Border Collies or Australian Cattle Dogs. They might have the right expertise to help rehome her.
This situation is common with herding breeds. They’re bred for work, not as casual pets. A specialized rescue could offer the support and resources needed to rehabilitate her.
Reach out to rescues, but be transparent about her history of nipping and her temperament. It’s crucial for her safety and the safety of others.
Consider a breed-specific rescue that can provide the appropriate training and environment she needs to thrive.
She sounds like she would thrive in a structured environment where her herding instincts are understood and managed. Perhaps a home without small children would be best, where her movements aren’t restricted and she can follow her natural instincts safely.
If fostering is an option, it could be a good temporary solution. Many rescues are more willing to back a dog if someone is available to foster.
Bex said:
If fostering is an option, it could be a good temporary solution. Many rescues are more willing to back a dog if someone is available to foster.
I would love to foster her myself, but my student commitments make it impossible. I’m actively looking for someone who can.
Training to manage her herding instincts could help mitigate her nipping behavior, which is often misunderstood as aggression.
It’s a misconception that her breed is naturally aggressive. Proper understanding and training are what she needs.
Shane said:
It’s a misconception that her breed is naturally aggressive. Proper understanding and training are what she needs.
Misunderstandings about breed behavior are unfortunately common.