I use a human treadmill with mine, nothing fancy. You could look in the local papers for someone wanting to dump one, or post looking for one or check with the local gyms that are turning stock. I have seen the "dog" ones with side panels, but it just didn't seem that sturdy. If that is the route you take I am sure many will offer tips of introduction.

 Quote: Chip Bridges

I'd be willing to invest in a treadmill. I'm not sure of any that come recommended for dogs, or exactly how you teach the dog to enjoy it, but I'm open to the idea.

I was not as successful at this as I would have liked to have been; I rushed it a bit and spooked Falcon. Hopefully other folks who use it successfully will see the post and chime in. Marker training would certainly be a good place to start. There is no doubt in my mind it can work well.

I have him again tonight, and WHEW there would be some acclimation to fit him into my pack full-time! My English goes to her crate and growls when he gets near when she's had enough. Rose has a very long fuse with him, though. They play great together, but occasionally, he wants to play when she's focused on something else or resting. And then there's a flash of teeth bearing and vocalization, and he submits immediately. But I know with time, he might get bold. There is no doubt in my mind that would result in his death or serious injury.

Which is exactly why I caution about adding another dog based on an emotional decision and not a thought-out, is this really what I want in my life/pack right now fashion. I don't recommend adding another dog without really, really thinking it through any more than people should adopt a cute little puppy for the kids to raise...

I realize I'm thinking ahead to worst case scenarios, but I don't want a household where I can't walk, play, feed, work, etc. all the dogs at once and have to always have someone crated. I'd sooner rehome him than do that to my current dogs who are working out great. FWIW, he walked perfectly on and off leash for my mother last night and today after Tuesday's strenuous exercise. There is no doubt this is a key component of his unruly behavior.

I absolutely think the exercise will make a huge difference !

---

If I may point this out: this family has already added this dog. They considered it very carefully and decided to adopt the pup despite the age and health concerns. If mistakes have been made during raising of the pup a responsible thing to do would be to try and fix them.

I really hate to disagree with everybody but this seems to be a classic case of having to take responsibility for one's pets. This problem was waiting to happen: elderly people with health problems + HE puppy = trouble.

Chip, I am sure you are doing the best you can in this situation.

 Quote: Ana Kozlowsky

If I may point this out: this family has already added this dog. They considered it very carefully and decided to adopt the pup despite the age and health concerns. If mistakes have been made during raising of the pup a responsible thing to do would be to try and fix them.

I really hate to disagree with everybody but this seems to be a classic case of having to take responsibility for one's pets. This problem was waiting to happen: elderly people with health problems + HE puppy = trouble.

Chip, I am sure you are doing the best you can in this situation.

I was under the impression this was the mother's dog and the son (not living at home) is trying to help out. It is Chip who is struggling with whether or not to bring the dog into HIS home/pack - not the mother. You are correct; she brought the dog into her home a year ago.

That's correct, Barbara. Sorry if my explanation was unclear. I live alone with the two bullies in my sig. My mother lives alone with Hank. Hank has recently had some behavior problems, I've worked with him and can't recreate the bad behaviors. Hank needs more exercise and (probably) a firmer hand -which I can provide, but my pack is really working out, and I'm not eager to add another dog.

If exercise is a good part of the solution, there might be real hope in keeping the dog with your mom - if she has not become too afraid of him? Since he often comes to work with her (at your shop) maybe that would be a good place for the treadmill and wearing his fuzzy butt out! Would your mom be open to learning and using marker training?

Just an update: I'm keeping him three nights a week, running his tail off and doing training sessions. So far no more biting, so that's the good news.
The bad news: my mother reports that he has barked at her when wanting attention/let outside. I've never seen this dog bark at anything but thunder! Any ideas on how she should handle this "bratty" behavior?

I don't know alot about dogs, but I do know dogs are like little kids to a point. It sounds like the bratty behavior is the same my kids do with someone they consider to be on the same "level as them". It sounds like he considers your mom on equal level as himself and you as the leader. But then again, I don't know dogs very well but I truly hope everything works out well in the end for everyone.

Mary

 Quote: chip bridges

Just an update: I'm keeping him three nights a week, running his tail off and doing training sessions. So far no more biting, so that's the good news.
The bad news: my mother reports that he has barked at her when wanting attention/let outside. I've never seen this dog bark at anything but thunder! Any ideas on how she should handle this "bratty" behavior?

NILIF... He doesn't get anything when being bossy and has to "work" to go outside - a very short OB session. Has your mom looked into marker training yet? She can begin by training "place" and sending him there when he gets demanding! She could also teach him lots of fun stuff they can do together.

BTW - is he getting any exercise the days he is not with you?

On days I don't have him, she's upped the walks and some ball play in her (tiny) back yard. As for marker training, I've sent her the links, and she's trying. She believes that Hank really wants to please her, I'm of the thought that dogs favor cooperation that makes their lives "good." For example; Hank will jump onto his bed upon hearing the rattle of a bag (even if it isn't a treat bag), and she and I fundamentally disagree on his reason. Well, we agree he anticipates a treat, but his "logic" behind it is something we interpret differently.
She is understanding that the marker does not equal the reward, and is making progress.

She (nor her trainer) believes in corrections, which I firmly believe is needed in many situations. Rose (my dog in the left picture of my signature) is the most high drive dog I have ever been around. Add to that, she has a low food drive, and distractions were everything to her! Without leash corrections, forced "outs," and other negative punishments, there is no doubt she would have either been euthanized and/or hurt someone (or dog). Hank is a dream dog to train comparatively. My hopes are high that my mother and Hank will be a great coupling. He is very food motivated, aloof towards other humans, and smart as a whip. Here's a link to his picture: http://i47.tinypic.com/2u94ydz.jpg
If he's awake, he pretty much always has this kind of eye contact. He's very interested in "his" humans, the rest of the world has to burn some calories to get his attention. Granted, a lot of that has to do with him being in a busy pet shop every day.