I no longer trust my dog - warning long.

Hey there. Lots of good advice on this post, so I won't parrot. I just wanted to tell you that it's going to be ok. It is scary to have growling and the feeling of bite threat, especially right next to your head. I would try to stay present in these situations and do what you did, you stayed as calm as you could, let go and didn't reprimand him. Good job! Going forward I might try to give him a little more personal space in your casual at home time, nice pets with his head not near yours, sweet words and eye contact but a little less body contact. I say this so that you can both notice each others energy, and so that you can remove the fear response from your interactions. This is for your own peace of mind (fear, such a hard feeling! Especially when its about someone you love!) And so that he can stop worrying so much about warning you or your other dog about his boundaries. I think boundaries are a wonderful way to show love and respect while getting to know another being, he has a different language so it's harder to hear, but I think you totally hear him now, and you can show him that you understand by giving him a little extra space. Even if he comes in for the cuddle, take it easy, just soft words with pets for a few days/weeks while you learn more of his subtle cues. He won't think he is being punished and you don't need to think you are either, you are simply communicating with your pup. Same type of subtle communication as when you ignore something naughty, he won't get a rise out of you and he will give up on it after a time. Doing more treat training and activities he likes (fetch, tug etc.) that don't need much contact will show him how much you care without putting your mind or body at risk. In time with new training you will both be able to understand and trust each other without resorting to growling/snapping. I have worked with a lot of PTSD/extreme anxiety people and animals, and boundaries are such an important part of feeling safe around other creatures. Even humans have a hard time realizing that their emotional or physical boundaries are being pushed too far, and without warning can react intensely, with anger, sadness etc. once we recognize our boundaries and our loved one's we can respect them and gain peace in the space between each other. Peace between dog and human is a beautiful place to reside, simply in the moment, together.

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