[in the hills]

I must admit that I never liked the idea of crates but thought I would give it a go when I had my lab pup a couple of years ago .... After reading posts about their use on here. She happily goes in at night or if we are all out in the daytime. She is bit of a chewer when left alone so it works really well. Also good when she is in season. Our dog is neutered but can still pester her at this time. Using the crate means they can still be company for each other at night or if we go out but not annoy each other. It may not be ideal but if you work the dogs would have each other's company but Luca would be safe from attack.

I would personally not leave any toys or chews around. It sounds as though this is the cause of at least some of the flare ups.

It must be quite scary for Luca to be pinned down. Personally I would be training your other dogs that this is just not acceptable behaviour and let them know that they would be in big trouble if they attacked him. Asserting yourself as pack leader in lots of different situations and improving overall discipline should help with this. They need to accept that Luca may be clumsy in his interactions but that they cannot 'attack' and that you won't tolerate it.



Having owned a blind dog, though he came from a very different background, I know that it can be difficult so lots of hugs.

[doganjo]

I'm not crating Luca.  I can put him in my bedroom or living room if I need to separate him! I don't think he'd be happier in a living room with me in a crate... remember he can't see me.

I'm also not crating Tilly.  I have a large kitchen she stays in and she only causes damage if I leave stuff out. 

Tilly damage isn't an issue (she's a youngster), it is just an explanation for chews. 

I would far prefer to separate with rooms than with crates in the same room which doesn't seem to have any advantage?

Sorry to be blunt but you are asking for advice and getting jolly good stuff here.  you should take it!!  I have two old girls who would kill each other, both perfectly fine with all other dogs.  I have crates in the lounge and the kitchen, and use them.  The younger one would literally kill the older one in seconds as she goes for the throat.  They get used to crates, and my dog Allez often goes into an empty one voluntarily.  You are being very unfair to Luca.  Either cage the youngsters and give him some peace or let him have permanent sleep.  My apologies if I seem pointed, I don't mince my words because the dogs are what are important not your thoughts or feelings on what is right or wrong.

[Old Shep]

 Plus 1 for  Doganjo 's sentiments.

[Kitchen Cottage]

Oh FFS.

[harmony]

Oh FFS.

Does "FFS" mean what I think?


If it does I would suggest you read through this thread again and close it as clearly answers are not appreciated.


There is nothing nothing with crates if they are used properly. They are not means to punish but sometimes dogs do need time out if their behaviour is unacceptable. How do you normally show your dogs they have acted unreasonably?


In the wild Luca would not have survived. He would not have been accepted by the pack because his disability would weaken their survival rate and he would have been a burden to them. Quite possibly this is why your other two dogs don't accept him.


No dog should be allowed to become food or toy aggressive so I'm afraid you have created that issue. I don't expect two year olds to chew either.


You are pack leader. Take control.

[suziequeue]

Dan

Can this thread be locked? I think all the sympathy, empathy and advice that can be given has been given and now we are just in to responding to responses which is becoming nugatory.