>>Hi everyone, I am new here. This is actually my husband's lizard login name, lol. Anyway, I also actually have a Rat Terrier, but JR's are the closest thing this forum has. I recently had a baby 6wks ago. My rat terrier was always my little buddy and lap dog. Since having my daughter he has not been able to sit on my lap as often, however he does still sleep in bed with me and I take him out to do daily chores, etc. I have made a concentrated effort to not ignore him. But he still acts out. He keeps taking my daughter's pacifiers and destroying them. He also destroyed a bottle he got ahold of, and takes toys and chews on them or hides them under the bed. He has also been peeing in the house. He is not neutered and has always done this to some extent, but it has gotten a lot worse. I just don't know what to do with him. Will neutering fix the problems?? I love this little guy, but I don't know how much more of this I can take.
>>
>>Thanks Everyone!
>>
>>Amy
His reasons for chewing and for increased marking could be exactly the opposite of what you think they are. Dogs are often attracted to objects that have the scent of those they love. Dogs often mark to show "the world" they are willing to die to protect the family in the territory they have marked out.
Neutering would be wise, because neutered male dogs are statistically less likely to bite children. You also need to get into some dog training with him so that you will be better able to direct him when your baby starts to crawl and walk. These are critical times that often cost dogs their lives. If you can't get to classes, you can get a behavior specialist or trainer who comes to the house.
That would have advantages in this situation of them being able to help you figure out how you are going to arrange things to manage dog and child. Until the child is school age, you must never leave dog and child alone together for even one second. Hard, I know, but a necessary rule for your child's safety.
-----
Kathy Diamond Davis, author, "Therapy Dogs: Training Your Dog to Reach Others," 2nd edition, and the free Canine Behavior Series at www.veterinaryforum.com
