greyghost16
11-07-2003, 05:10 PM
He was just five and a half and in good physical condition and it was a miserable time for me.Jack was a male golden which had delighted me with his ability to teach me and learn with me. Even though I was his only teacher, he became a more than respectable waterfowl dog. For several years, we had fought a tendency toward dominance and aggression trying numerous plans including advice and suggestions from a registered dog psychologist. The problem always crept back. His aggression never quite escalated to biting. All the while, we strengthened our bond to each other and were strong friends despite this scattered problem. about ten days ago we were going hunting the next morning and I went to bed early. The bedroom door was open and Jack came in to lie down beside me. He is not allowed to stay in the bedroom. Later in the evening, my wife came in and when she saw him there she spoke to him intending to put him out. He sat up and growled and then charged her in a bloody hell dogfight snarl which caused me to jerk upright thinking that he had attacked an intruder. My wife was able to shut the bedroom door but she believes that otherwise he would have bitten her. I tried to think of any justification and really couldn't. I contacted the vet as soon as possible and told them that I thought he should be put down. They said they had a doctor with a broken arm and were not sure just when they could do it but would call me. They have not called to this day. Meanwhile I tried every possibility for giving him to someone without kids or pups but all failed. I broke out in shingles related to the stress. I decided to contact another vet and they very kindly and professionally put him down. I am truly sickened inside. I have been told that this dog had genetic alpha tendencies and I did try to stay on top of it from the beginning. If you see any signs of dominant behavior in your dogs, please address it right away. I would like to spare you a day like this.