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@awretchlikeme This post really moved me. I can feel how devoted you already are to Toccio. He, as would any dog, is lucky to have you. You remind me a little of myself prior to getting my current dog, Roman. I was near obsessed-level committed to this guy. I had considered myself experienced...

@cyjones85 Just wanted to comment quickly because I saw your original posts. They made me cry, and I could feel the love you had and have for your dog. I am so, so sorry. Thank you for reminding me, and all of us, that these dogs are treasures. On my worst days, I think about your posts and...

@jesus_is_our_lord It depends on each individual dog, but the consensus is around 3-4 years. Some will mature before that and others after.

@vickiegram I know you've likely had to pay for a ton of vet pills recently, but I would highly suggest you ask for a referral to a behavioural vet specialist. This is a delicate situations, considering the combo of issues your pup seems to be struggling with, and a specialist is going to be...

@adriana144 This happens all the time to people who own large dogs who grow fast and look big. Those strangers don't know he's still a baby. It used to happen to me all the time and influenced my training too, until I decided I had enough. You and your dog are what matter most. Ignore them! (or...

@adriana144 I think it's just important to be balanced and realistic during this phase of their life. For your mental health as well! Expecting loose leash walking with 100% focus at 8 months old is setting yourself up for some serious frustration (and anyone who tells you to expect those things...

@adriana144 Those are some high expectations for an 8 month old... First and foremost, I should warn you that GDSs mature really slowly. And your pup is just headed into the teenage phase. Progress is not going to be clean or linear. You'll experience periods of regression, periods of progress...

@orthodox_christian That's tough, I'm sorry. Your trainer likely suggested a pause because physical pain greatly impacts behaviour; but even then, I'm sorry she left you a bit in the dark and on your own. I wouldn't be surprised if the increase in reactivity you're noticing is very much related...

@lightchrst Mals can be prone to a variety of guarding behaviours, and without proper training, it can escalate very quickly and with a lot of intensity. I know you mentioned that professional help is not something you can't afford right now, but I would truly prioritize that. Ideally, a...

@rengb121 Fluoxetine builds over time. It can take longer than 6-8 weeks for some pups. Most vet behaviour specialists will prescribe a secondary medication to accompany fluoxetine (like gabapentin or clonidine). These "secondary meds" are usually shorter lasting with more immediate effects...

@awretchlikeme I'm so happy for you! I was just thinking of you and Toccio. What a great new start for him. Keep it up!