Cower or fear bite--what determines...?

External Since: Dec 02, 2003 Posts: 468

I just met Brinx, an intact male PBT, about one year old. He was a
stray that was so frightened, he had to be trapped.

I spent about 90 minutes with him, and he is already beginning to look
around and walk about, but, as one might expect, Brinx is still very
afraid. When I returned him to his cage, he immediately went to the most
distant point.

About 45 minutes later, I visited him again, and again he fled to the
most distant point. I invaded his space, for some good-bye petting,
which he tolerated.

Brinx is obviously afraid, and he seems more depressed than fearful.,
but he has shown no sign at all of agression. My question is why do some
mistreated dogs withdraw and others become clearly vicious? Granted,
Brinx has teeth and therefore can bite; but he demonstrates that biting
is still not the way he prefers to handle perceived threats.

I and Brinx will have round two today, including a bath. Considering his
youth, brindle coat and small size, he would make a good candidate for
adoption--if I can bring him out of his shell. I'm hopeful. I bet I get
a hug today.

________________________
Whatever it takes.

External Since: May 15, 2007 Posts: 3

Michael & Brinx,

Thank you Michael for what you are attempting to do for Brinx.

Please please be aware, as I'm sure you are, even a fearful dog will
only tolerate so much interference before it will lash out.

If you are serious about seeking advice and help, try seeking out
Diane Jessup of LawDogsUSA and you can find her on this site:
http://www.thepitbullplace.com or the alternate site: http://www.pitbullforum.com
(original forum started by someone else).

She may have some helpful tips and suggestions to help you and Brinx
overcome what he's very obviously been through. Good luck and should
you have the opportunity, give Brinx a big hug and kiss from me! I
truly wish him the best of luck!!

Kerri & Angus

On May 11, 11:13 am, Michael A. Ball wrote:
> I just met Brinx, an intact male PBT, about one year old. He was a
> stray that was so frightened, he had to be trapped.
>
> I spent about 90 minutes with him, and he is already beginning to look
> around and walk about, but, as one might expect, Brinx is still very
> afraid. When I returned him to his cage, he immediately went to the most
> distant point.
>
> About 45 minutes later, I visited him again, and again he fled to the
> most distant point. I invaded his space, for some good-bye petting,
> which he tolerated.
>
> Brinx is obviously afraid, and he seems more depressed than fearful.,
> but he has shown no sign at all of agression. My question is why do some
> mistreated dogs withdraw and others become clearly vicious? Granted,
> Brinx has teeth and therefore can bite; but he demonstrates that biting
> is still not the way he prefers to handle perceived threats.
>
> I and Brinx will have round two today, including a bath. Considering his
> youth, brindle coat and small size, he would make a good candidate for
> adoption--if I can bring him out of his shell. I'm hopeful. I bet I get
> a hug today.
>
> ________________________
> Whatever it takes.