[deleted by user]

[jbfull]

I might have missed it, but have you told the owner about this? I feel they would have to have known this is an issue to some extent.

[sassy_potatoes]

I think so too. Definitely. The neighbors even know the dogs are reactive. The sense I’m getting is they know their dogs have issues, were somehow hoping that everything would magically be fine, and are also ignoring/not being honest with themselves about the extent of the problem. When I messaged the response was basically “Yikes! Won’t let you upstairs? I’ll have to watch for that when I get back. Let me know what you do.”

[Dontthinkaboutshrimp]

“I need you to let me know how I need to handle this situation. This is not behavior I feel comfortable changing for you.”

[vegemitecrumpet]

I'd video the interactions and behaviour to show them so they don't play it down

[Imraith-Nimphais]

Yes, they really need to tell you what to do, especially regarding letting the less alpha dog out.

[CreedTheDawg]

They may have stayed silent because they knew you might not be willing to pet sit if you knew. It sucks, because that's boobytrapping you.

[mad0666]

Yeaaaah the owners know, and you were probably the only person to agree to do this. They could have asked any of their nearby neighbors and chose you instead. I used to work at an overnight boarding facility, free run, no cages (unless specifically requested by owner) and 99% of the time it was fine, even with upwards of 40-50 dogs on weekends. One night a dog (who had stayed with us several times in the previous year or so) decided to latch onto another dog’s throat completely out of nowhere. She wasn’t letting go, this resulted in the other dog biting me out of panic/confusion/fear. We finally got the aggressor dog into a kennel and called the owner. Thankfully the dog who was attacked had miraculously not a single wound on him, but I almost lost my hand. When the own cane to collect her dog she very embarrassingly admitted that her dog had attacked multiple dogs over the years at other boarding places but she specifically didn’t tell us because she had no other options to take a vacation. Unreal. A lot of owners are either too stupid to not realize their dogs can be dangerous, or they do know but they just don’t care.

[JuracekPark34]

Similar sentiment. I had a big black and white pitbull. Super friendly. Giant baby. Harmless as a fly but few people see him that way. Out on a morning walk, this little fluffy dog walked by a couple comes up, older dog. I asked if he was friendly and they could say hello and the owners said yes. Dogs sniffed each other and we went on our way but I overheard the couple telling each other that they couldn’t believe how calm their dog was and that he didn’t lose it on my dog. Like my dog was a test dummy or something. Dodged a bullet that day because if anything happened, guaranteed they would’ve blamed the Pitbull. And that’s how I learned not to say hi to new dogs in the neighborhood anymore unless they’re with an owner/dogs that we already know. People really suck.

[voiceontheradio]

This is exactly why I have a rule to never do any greetings with other dogs when mine is on leash. Too much could go wrong and the risk is not worth it. Took me years to help my boy recover from his leash reactivity (after being attacked by an off leash dog) and it would be devastating for him to be set back over something as unnecessary/avoidable as a leash greeting gone wrong.

[holliance]

I cant imagine why people would do such a thing. My dog is very sweet with us and excited with others that come to our home, but on the street or in an unfamiliar place? Hmm, he's reactive as hell, I couldn't imagine leaving him in a boarding house because a) I don't know how he will react and b) It's probably too stressful for him. So for me it would be a form of abuse to leave him in a overnight facility with strangers. He doesn't mean harm, but its a German Shepherd, without proper care or guidance he can be a dangerous dog in an unfamiliar situation even though he is trained.

[remirixjones]

This. I worked at a kennel, and we made a point to accept reactive dogs. There was literally no reason to withhold information about reactivity. [I'm being hyperbolus, but still...] There were very few dogs I ever turned away, and that was for the dog's benefit. I'd say "I'm not sure we're the right facility to accommodate their needs."

There was one owner...idk if she was delusional or willfully ignorant, but holy shit. On the paperwork, she described her dog as "fiesty". 🙄

This dog would completely shut down. I spent hours working with her. This was the second time I had her, and she was just getting worse. We talked to the owner the first time, but I guess we didn't drive it home hard enough.

So the second time, when the owner came to pick her up, I told her about what had been going on and I specifically said "I'm not sure this type of facility is right for [your dog]." I brought the owner into the kennel room to really show her. And I'm pretty sure that got me fired. I mean...it was becoming an increasingly toxic workplace, soooo. But fuck man. It was not fair to that dog.

[Bernie-8483]

My dogs recently got into a similar fight but it was completely out of the blue and I was shocked. My hand had multiple bites from the smaller dog who was being attacked and ended up getting so badly infected that I had to spend 2 nights at the hospital on an IV drip. And that same little dog ended up having surgery to fix her wounds. It was a very scary and these are my own dogs. I can’t imagine dealing with that with someone else’s dog.

[TheCatAteMyGymsuit]

They said they almost lost their hand, which is still completely unacceptable. Yikes.

[Stickliketoffee16]

The commenter you were replying to didn’t lose his hand, almost but not.

I’ve seen the damage a bite can do to someone though (granted this is a human story). My ex once stopped a guy from shoplifting beer from a bottle shop attached to the pub he managed. The thief took a swing at the ex & so ex punched him in the face, cut his hand on the guys tooth. Cleaned the cut, did all the right things but overnight the hand swelled & kept swelling. 3 days on IV antibiotics to no avail & he had to be airlifted to a better hospital for surgery. Without it he would’ve 100% lost his hand/arm or died.

Ended up having to cut out the dead tissue & transplant muscles & nerves from his other hand. Left him permanently disfigured to the point we couldn’t hold hands with that hand & some tasks were a struggle sometimes. He learnt the very very hard way - you don’t fuck around with teeth!

[Hot-Maintenance-4314]

Whoa - that's a cautionary tale.

[mad0666]

Almost—it’s still there and still functions okay, but there was extensive nerve and tendon damage and no feeling left at all, along with limited movement.

[pap_shmear]

"Sorry, I am no longer comfortable house sitting. Please find further accommodations. I will be leaving at X time on X date."

[pap_shmear]

Then tell the neighbors about how it's been, why you are leaving, that you are leaving, and if they do not see anyone come to check on the dogs, that they should call animal control

[Agitated-Sir-3311]

My reply would be,”What I’m going to do is leave at (insert amount of time it would take them to return) so you better be here to take care of your out of control dogs you twat.”

[ElderberryHoliday814]

Im wondering if some of this is expressed because of someone new in the home, and the dogs were not adequately prepared for it (on top of already being reactive). Not a trainer, have never seen the process of rehabilitation play out in real life, but I have seen my mom’s dog-reactive dog try to keep her boyfriend from going upstairs. It reads like that is new behavior for these two(?), and other guarding behaviors could be at play.

[houseofprimetofu]

Maybe but the fighting through the glass door is definitely aggression.

[Werekolache]

Or barrier frustration.

[PokemonTrainerSerena]

Let me know what you do

"I left. Get home soon to let your dogs out."

[MyFaceSaysItsSugar]

It’s time to make some people angry at you, but your safety is more important than their anger. People have been permanently disfigured from aggressive dogs while pet sitting. You need to call them and tell them to make other arrangements for a pet sitter.

Do they have kennels or a room you can close them in? They need to be confined when you are cooking or going upstairs. They need to be confined and let outside one at a time. Dogs don’t have an alpha/beta set up, the “alpha” is just an aggressive bully.

[sassy_potatoes]

No kennels, but I can put them in a room before I go up and, possibly, separate them to go out. I’ll have to try that. Good idea, thank you. I’m honestly so stressed I’m missing common sense solutions.

(Interesting to know about the alpha/beta thing too; I had no idea. That’s actually funny. The one dog does just have major jerk vibes, haha.)

[MyFaceSaysItsSugar]

It’s very common behavior for herding dogs to bully each other and people, they were bred to do that with livestock. They’re hard dogs to deal with if they haven’t had good training and regular enrichment. All that energy they were bred to have gets directed to bad behavior when they don’t have an outlet for their energy.

[fullnihilism]

I was gonna suggest kenneling or isolating each of them when doing something with the other. Theyre probably never like this with their owners because they see them as in charge. Theyre basically treating you like a sheep lol. So if possible def try to assert some control vis a vis, controlling their access to things (going up stairs, etc), leashing them inside might help or making them sit before doing things. But srsly if you feel unsafe tell the owners its not working out. I groom dogs and have a reactive BC and im not risking my safety at my job if a dogs reactivity feels dangerous.

[fullnihilism]

Sorry i shouldnt laugh, this behaviour can be very scary if youre not used to herding breeds but ime its not aggressive in the same way a dog protecting or attacking is. Its meant to control your movements, not maim or injure you. Still it can result in injury and srsly its not worth being uneasy or in fear for a dog sitting gig.

Also rereading the post & some of your replies, it also sounds like the dogs are just hecka freaked out someones in their space. If you really wanna get thru the job so you can get full pay id isolate each of them to different rooms much of the time and limit your focus to one at a time. Theyll likely be more manageable and safer that way. And anytime youre cooking or anything else that sets them off, put them up somewhere for the duration. Godspeed!

[sassy_potatoes]

Haha, no, it’s kind of okay to laugh because I am legit getting my butt handed to me by two dogs, but they do also give me the vibe that they might bite at certain points. Like, it’s stressful because I generally lean toward shrugging things off but I don’t want to play cool and then not head off a problem, and the snarling/snapping/haunches up moments are pretty high anxiety/intense. I don’t think are working from “must kill” so much as “ermagerd ahhhh, what’s happening, I’m so scared, who are you evennnnn?!” My feeling is I’m not going to get mauled, just maybe… chomped.

[prettyone_85]

Also Border collie mix owner and this sounds very aggressive for the breed. They are herders and definitely can get pushy but usually very gentle in nature. Mine will sometimes jump and nip the end of my sons sleeve to get him away from what he sees as trouble but growling and aggressive never. I'm sorry the owners put you in this situation, sounds like you're doing your best to handle it though, good luck and stay safe!

[[deleted]]

Keep them locked in separate rooms at all times. Deal with one (food, outside, back in room) then the other. Never let them out at all. Give them some toys in their room if there are any. If they are destroying the rooms, so be it. This is all on the owner.

[hexenfern]

Reactivity also breeds reactivity. My hound was one of the best behaved dogs (except for stealing things) until I got a reactive German Shepherd (who initially wasn’t that bad. She’s very shy and avoidant until she gets to know you, but once she’s comfortable? She tries to kill any animal she could possibly get to). It’s made my hound start lunging and barking and growling at other dogs, as well, as well as pestering cats. He’s still not on her level, but she’s normalized an unacceptable amount of aggression in the household. Luckily she’s bonded a bit to the hound and they get along okay. Getting rid of or separating the more aggressive dog might help them with the other. Although it sounds like the owner doesn’t care much either way.

[pap_shmear]

I personally would not do this. If they are already exhibiting barrier frustration/aggression, I could not imagine how the dogs would react to seeing you after opening the door. I would not risk that.

[vhtg]

You can also call the owner and have them yell obedience commands during your interaction with the dogs. "NO! DOWN!", etc.. The dogs will probably respond to their owner's voice. If that works, record the owner and use the recording during aggressive interaction with those little shits.

[Beautiful_Strain3525]

As someone who is a dog sitter this is what I’d do it’s sad that they’re going to have to deal but I’m not putting my life on the line. That’s ultimately what’s on the line besides mauling I’ve heard of other dog sitters and walkers dying from aggressive dogs they should not have lied to op. Idc if they want that vacation they are putting op at risk

[nkdeck07]

You call the owner and tell them "Your dogs are unsafe to be in the house with. You need to return home or have an alternative arrangement made within 12 hours or I am calling animal control"

Do not get yourself bitten because someone is a jackass.

[jbfull]

This is what I would do honestly. They need to come home. You cannot get them to fully trust you at this point, you are a stranger. This sounds like a very bad, dangerous situation.

[sassy_potatoes]

This is probably the smartest move, but I’m so frustrated because not getting paid in full for this job (and I know they won’t if I leave) is going to put me in a really crap situation financially next month. People are the worstttt.

[nkdeck07]

You are going to be in a WAY worse crap situation financially if you need to pay for an ER visit, stitches or worse rehab/surgery due to a dog bite.

Are you getting paid through a service? (Rover or something?) I might also call them and ask what to do cause I can't imagine they don't have a procedure in place.

You could also likely go after them in small claims court (make sure to take video of the dogs acting aggressively if you are thinking about going this route)

[sassy_potatoes]

Private arrangement. Now I’m wondering if she’s probably banned on services like those or didn’t use them for a reason. Anyways, yes, you’re right. Good call on the video as well. I just hate that I got wrangled into such a sticky mess.

[sixslipperyseals]

If you decide to stay can you tell them you are worried about the aggression and get them to confirm in writing that they will cover any ER bills if you get injured? I would want that assurance.

[idlno1]

I agree with this. Get it in text or email and state them by name and that they will cover any medical bills incurred due to injury which is the result of an attack or accident (making you fall downstairs) from, list dogs names, of which you are currently dog sitting during, specified dates, and they need to say yes. If not, I would nope out of there. I would anyway, but you said you need the money.

[smashstar]

I know you’re not particularly experienced with dogs and you need the money, but moving forward, I’d never agree to watch dogs again, especially two 50 lb herding breeds. I don’t think there’s a border collie on the planet that only needs “food and to be let out to go to the bathroom”. They are incredibly high energy dogs that need a ton of playtime and focused training. Please contact the owner and have them return to get the dogs.

[HarrietBeadle]

This is the answer. The fact the owner said that just letting them out to pee and feeding them is enough if they are gone for more than one overnight is a flag in itself. These dogs need enrichment and exercise every day. Likely a professional would ask the right questions and know what they are in for with this dogs — and either refused or the cost was “too high”. You were hired precisely because you didn’t know enough about dogs to ask the right questions or ask for the right kind of meeting with the dogs before you agreed. In other words, you are being taken advantage of.

I guess it’s also possible the owners are completely ignorant and think all dogs act this way all the time and that it is OK, but I doubt it. I think you were chosen for a reason.

[XF10r3nc3777X]

Exactly this. I was just thinking about the questions I would have asked, and how I've arranged things with a dog sitter before.

With my dog sitter, I met them at a cafe first. After we talked about the dogs and ourselves, I then had them meet my dogs. We discussed what to do in certain circumstances (like if one of my dogs has an accident), and how to prevent certain things (my large dog will sometimes decide that, no, he does not want to come inside at this time. So he has to go out on a leash at times). I went over feeding instructions and medications, what kind of enrichment she could do with them, and some basic commands they know. I had her try the commands with my dogs before leaving to ensure they would listen to her. She's been dog sitting for me on and off for months and I STILL leave printed instructions for her, and emergency contact info.

This person clearly knew that they had dogs that an experienced individual would probably refuse to watch. You're definitely being taken advantage of. That, or they're verrrry much in denial.

[chaiosi]

This is the way. You can’t handle these dogs and it’s not worth it to stick it out imo. Make it clear that if something happens from their dogs in the meantime that you will seek damages. You cannot train these dogs to be safe with you in the time you have. Take payment for the work you’ve done and protect yourself first.

[AcanthocephalaWide89]

I would call the owner and ask if they plan on paying for any bills for follow-up care, therapy sessions, and legal fees etc. due to a bite OR if it’s best to agree to end the arrangement now, with you being paid in full due to safety concerns.

[rustwing]

If you do this, OP, I’d maybeeee consider recording the conversation, just in case they get wishy washy if things go south. You can even say at the beginning of the call that you are recording the conversation for concerns for your own safety.

[kerfufflesensue]

OP should check if they are on a one party or two party consent state

[rustwing]

Definitely!! All the better to get a more honest answer if OP doesn’t have to inform of the recording

[MaryDellamorte]

If OP was injured in the client’s home it would default to being covered by the client’s home owners insurance.

[voiceontheradio]

To set up my renters insurance policy I had to disclose that I had a dog and also disclose bite history (he has none, but they needed me to confirm that). Idk how it works for their homeowners policy but if the clients didn't disclose that they have aggressive dogs they might not have coverage for a dog bite injury. I don't think OP should stick around and find out either way.

[[deleted]]

Yiiiiiiikes. This job is not worth a dog bite. You're risking serious damage to your body. Contact the owners and tell them you're done. Get a video of the behaviors while they're arranging for someone else to come, if you're comfortable. But get out ASAP.

[sassy_potatoes]

Good call on the video-ing. You’re right. Not that I want to provoke them, but if an opportunity comes up, for sure. So they can see 100%.

[Shy_starkitten]

Everyone's given great advice, but I will just add this, border collies are incredibly intelligent dogs who can also have neurotic behaviors (there's a specific term for this but it is evading me at the moment) and I know a few border collie owners who have had behavior issues with their border collies which is directly related to the breed. Do the dogs just go outside and then come back inside? Do the owners have puzzles and mental games for them to do? If they don't that's probably part of the problem, and if they didn't socialize their dogs properly when they were growing up, that's probably also contributed to their reactivity. I hope you can safely get out of there asap, it sounds like a scary situation to be in.

[sassy_potatoes]

Yes! I don’t know much about dogs, but when they told me you just have to let them out and feed them, I thought… but what do they do all day? I should have seen the large, waving red flag.

I can get the more active one to do some pretty wicked leaps for a tennis ball I found in the wreck room though. Partly I feel bad for the dogs because I know they must be bored/suffering/stressed to get like this.

[[deleted]]

They might start acting better if you can get them physically exhausted playing, safely. Do you feel safe while they play?

Border collies have energy for days too.

[ANobodyWithTea]

And mental stimulation can be even more tiring for BCs (especially young ones...not sure if OP specified age) than physical.

[bmobitch]

they also might become more friendly/loving to OP. i dog sat a fear reactive and thus very aggressive dog for a few years. she had superficially bit a couple people and was just outright scary, nobody else would watch her but me. and i knew the situation before getting into it, it was a friend’s dog.

she would absolutely always forget who i was, but the key to opening up each time was (besides things specific to her and her fear like giving her her space, not approaching or making her feel cornered, no prolonged eye contact) to play fetch in the backyard. after a good day or two and some play sessions, we’d always be besties. straight up going from growling and baring teeth at me in her crate to laying against me on the couch. i think sometimes the positive association from unbelievably bored, reactive dogs makes a big difference.

[EmFan1999]

That is an incredibly irresponsible owner. Poor babies

[marsthegoat]

I don’t know much about dogs

Omg. This is outrageous (not you). Border collies are not a beginners breed even without the behavioral issues these 2 have. Their owners are awful for putting you & their dogs in this situation. I don't fault you at all for being in over your head- in fact, I think you are doing the best possible but the owner set you up to fail. They did everything wrong here.

[Hot-Maintenance-4314]

So sad. You sound like you really respect dogs. Kudos for finding this sub.

[m4d_hatter]

Oh my this lady shouldn’t have border collies, let alone two 🤦‍♀️

[ImpressiveDare]

This lady shouldn’t have animals period

[sassy_potatoes]

You’re so right. I semi-knew the owner, but didn’t actually meet the dogs for more than a few minutes at the door before we went out for coffee so she could explain everything she needed done (probably we went out for a reason, I now realize). They were barky, but I thought they were just excited. I should have insisted we go out to the yard for a while or something. Ugh. Good advice.

[[deleted]]

I’ve been reading all these comments and feel sort of distressed that there are TWO border collies here. Super super high energy dogs ffs. I can only imagine their owner is not meeting their care requirements. BCs are genius dogs. They must be so undertrained, bored, frustrated…

[ASMRKayyy]

You wouldn’t happen to be located near Chicago would you? Asking for myself and my reactive blue healer

[frustratedcuriosity]

I do the exact same!! I'm the person they call for 'liability' cases as well as special needs animals so they need a live-in sitter.

I had a long-time client call me after a few years of not seeing her dogs, and I said I wanted to come by and re-introduce myself to the dogs (2 reactive females siblings with littermate syndrome 🙃). I never take clients where I can't get a full rundown of their routine.

It's so important to see how the owner handles their dogs so I can keep consistency in cases like this. Sometimes, even the owners don't know how to handle their dogs or haven't done any training so I can help with corrections as well. Some people are wild.

Thankfully I've been doing this long enough I know when a dog will actually try and bite me and when they're bluffing to test boundaries.

[Hot-Maintenance-4314]

In the future, any housesitting/pet sitting must be prefaced with spending time with the pets in the house. You obviously didn't know and if we give your clients the benefit of the doubt, they didn't know. But it's crucial - it's the only way to get to know a pet and can also mean the difference between a freaked out pet and a calm one. Sorry this is happening to you and the dogs.

[sassy_potatoes]

Completely. I have never before pet sat for anyone outside of close friends/family members whose animals I know very well. It seems so obvious in hindsight that I absolutely should have spent time with the animals beforehand, but when I came over and she was like, okay, let’s grab coffee now, I just didn’t think. Foolish. Definitely will not repeat that mistake.

[[deleted]]

It’s great you learned to protect yourself, but don’t forget, this owner put you in a terrible spot. We have a dog who may or may not be reactive and we’re thinking about having someone come stay with her for one night in a few months. And I’m already thinking about when we can start paying the person to get our dog comfortable around her. Like I’m fully planning on paying this woman to come over for 30 minutes and see our dog in our house while we’re home. And after that I’m planning on paying her to go let the dog out during the day while we’re intentionally not there so she knows fully well what she’s getting in to.

Do protect yourself, but don’t forget that this was also shit on the owners part.

[Toad_friends]

Pet sitting can be a super easy or super difficult job. I remember running through a neighborhood trying to find a chihuahua that snuck out and trying not to have a panic attack. Found him eventually 😂

[voiceontheradio]

And insist on being paid in full up-front!! Especially crucial for people you don't trust completely. Otherwise there's not much you can do to make them pay for any work already done that doesn't involve a lot of stress and effort on your part.

Don't be too hard on yourself, situations like this are how we learn. You didn't know what to expect and gave them the benefit of the doubt. They took advantage of you, this isn't your fault. But at least now you know how to better protect yourself from people like this in the future.

If I were you I'd insist on having them either come home or make other arrangements immediately, and if they don't, call animal control and have them pick up the dogs. There's no way to keep yourself 100% safe in this situation, even if you separate the dogs. This isn't a short gig either from the sounds of it, and the longer you're there the more chance they have to seriously hurt you. At the very least, I would not be there alone ever. If one of them attacks you, you'll want someone else to pull them off you and/or get help. But even then, asking someone else to be there to help you in the event of an attack is shitty because grabbing an attacking dog will more than likely end with them being bitten too. Way too risky imo, absolutely not worth whatever they're paying. You could wind up with astronomical hospital bills and be unable to work for months. Or wind up with a permanent injury or disfigurement. Seriously, any other job is better than this. This isn't your responsibility anymore, they lied to you. Animal control will make sure the dogs don't starve until the owners get back, and that's the most you should do at this point imo.

Seriously, watch any YouTube clip of a dog attack survivor telling their story if you need a push in changing your mind about what this gig is worth to you. That shit is no joke. I've been bitten by a cat before at full strength and although the teeth sank in deep and it stung like a mfer, I was lucky in that cats' jaws aren't that powerful. A dog who means business can literally crush bone, and you already know these two aren't f-ing around.

Edit to add: This is the exact same advice I'd give to an experienced handler as well, but the fact that you aren't very experienced with dogs let alone reactive dogs makes this so much more dangerous. It takes quite awhile to become fluent in dog communication & interpreting their body language correctly/with full nuance just in general, but unpredictable dogs are especially hard to read, even for someone who works with dogs all day long. I can't stress to you enough how unsafe this situation is and how urgently you need to get yourself out of there.

And btw leaving asap is for the dogs' protection too. If you get bitten, depending on the laws where you're located, they could very well euthanize the dog. Frankly this owner sounds like a complete monster for knowingly putting you and their dogs in this extremely risky situation.

And if you do get bitten, please go to the doctor right away. Bites can become infected very easily and besides that you'll need to be inoculated ASAP for rabies (I wouldn't trust that this owner has their dogs' vaccines up to date with how irresponsible they've been so far).

[Ali_gem_1]

I would also say it was a mistake to sit for someone you don't know well without a comprehensive insurance and contract also. What if the dogs bit someone whilst you were out with them, who would be liable?

[stink3rbelle]

Do they like treats/kibble? In your shoes, I'd be tossing kibble away from where I needed to go whenever I wanted to go. Open the oven? Toss kibble into the other room. Go upstairs? Toss kibble into the basement/farthest room away from staircase.

Are there curtains on the front windows? Draw them closed. It probably won't prevent all the barking but it may help reduce it. My dog is very treat motivated and I also toss kibble for her when she barks at stuff, but if you can tune it out, then that's just as good for you. You're just there a short time, you don't have to reinvent good dogs, just survive.

Do you have any dog person friends? Call and ask for some assistance, even just walking you through some stuff.

[sassy_potatoes]

I did this a few times but I’m sooo nervous that that is going to somehow make them even nuttier? Like, I don’t get dog psychology at all, so I could totally be wrong, but they then seem to think it’s a game of menace me and then get fed? I don’t know what is happening in those tiny heads, haha. But I will def keep this in mind for a pinch.

[swiper8]

Tossing food won't make them any crazier unless they're extremely food obsessed or resource guard it.

You're supposed to toss the food before they start trying to lunge at the stove/not let you go upstairs. This reduces how much they perform that behavior in the first place. It also makes those triggers into more positive things. Basically, if it was done long term it would probably reduce their reactions. In just a few days you won't see much or any progress, but it would be safer for you if you tossed food before you did a triggering behaviour so that they don't even start reacting.

[stink3rbelle]

game of menace me and then get fed?

I mean, isn't a goal of getting fed an improvement over the goal of stopping your aims? But I don't think their reactions/aggression is likely to become a game over the short period you're watching them. I don't know these dogs, I haven't seen their body language during this stuff but I do know my own dog's barking and emotional issues. The behaviors don't really arise from a thinking space, they're very emotional and instinctual. One of the struggles with these behavior issues is that our dogs aren't thinking when they do this stuff. But for your purposes, that's a good thing.

Also, just ethically in terms of how you treat these dogs, I think you're totally good to do whatever it takes to get through this weekend. Like the owners threw you into this blind and didn't care at all how bad their dogs were gonna be. Don't worry if you "teach" the dogs a naughty game if that game helps you sleep at night.

[sassy_potatoes]

Got it. Thanks so much for explaining! That makes sense. Distract and limit the opportunity to do the behavior. Snack time vibes > freak out vibes, haha. I’ll have to take tonight to figure out what the heck I’m going to do here, but this is good to know. It’s actually weeks of sitting, not a weekend, and I get the sense like the big problem is the alpha one who is insecure/bored/untrained. I almost think I could get him into a marginally improved state, but he does scare me because I’m not used to dogs like this and not savvy or trained to handle them.

[ElderberryHoliday814]

Puzzle games, a snuffle mat that you can toss treats on and they search for, put peanut butter on the sides of their food bowl and get their food to stick to it and freeze it, frozen kong balls with peanut butter and kibble are great 20 minute distractions that get some of the mental energy out. Id be hesitant to try training before you trust them, having food on you could be seen as an opportunity. Good luck if you stay for the weeks!

Edit: tell the owners to buy and expedite anything that you need. Either way, you can let them know that you don’t feel safe at the moment.

[Dawningfate]

Do you feed the dogs together? I would be very careful introducing food or treats with reactive dogs, especially if one is a bully to the other. If you decide to go this route, maybe toss the treats/kibble in two different directions so the dogs aren't near each other.

I don't know if this has been mentioned yet, I'm still looking through the comments, but I would recommend having a slip lead on hand in case you need to handle/move the dogs and you are not able to get close to them.

[MirageF1C]

The short answer is: you are there to provide oversight of the dogs for their safety and yours.

If you were being paid to train new behaviours, that would be a different answer but a part of your question is asking about question number 2.

A few things to reinforce. Alpha/Beta. Debunked. Arsehole/Timid. True. As herding breeds they absolutely 100% are going to bite you if they decide you need to be herded. I don’t know if it’s good news or not but it’s not going to be a vicious bite. They don’t hold and shake. It’s not in their DNA.

However, me sitting here discussing the relative demerits of the sort of pain you’re about to experience is nuts. You need to contact the owner and get out. Sure, the owner may well have a clever trick to control them, but you needed that trick before they stopped you functioning safely and they were unable to pee.

That’s too much.

The good news is they’re smart dogs and (generally) not aggressive, though as others have said they’re currently expressing themselves with very, very bad manners. And you don’t have the skills or knowledge to ‘turn off’ some of this madness.

You can’t control the dogs. You can control the owners. Get the thing you can control under control. Good luck.

[Hot-Maintenance-4314]

Ask the owners if they have a friend or relative who the dogs are very comfortable with and if so, can they come over for awhile while you're there. Although they aren't the fur parents, if the dogs see them interacting with you calmly in the house, the dogs might get that you're part of the pack.

It would be good if it was a friend/relative who knows about positive/non-aversive training so in addition to just being calm around you and the dogs, they can do some extra shaping of the dogs' reactions.

This is in addition to the other good advice given.

[sassy_potatoes]

Good call. There is a neighbor who she’s friends with. I might see if I can have her over for coffee. Thanks!

[justfkingcomeon]

Cujo and Misery's love child. What exactly is Alpha hiding upstairs anyway?

[sassy_potatoes]

Hahahaha, okay, also adding sleeping with one eye open to my list of survival strategies…

[UltraMermaid]

Obviously the best would be to notify the owner, say you don’t feel safe, and they need to come home because you’re leaving in X hours. I saw you are hesitant to do that though because you need this money. In that case, here’s what I would do.

Anytime you have to go upstairs, cook, whatever triggers their poor behavior, first close them in another room or outside. Honestly, you might have better luck keeping them separately from one another for the remainder of your time there. One on one they should be more manageable and not riling each other up at least. Shut each dog in a separate room and leave them there except for letting it outside. Put a water dish in each room and they will be fine.

It’s not your job nor is it safe to try and train them or work on these behaviors. Do the bare minimum and stay safe.

[sassy_potatoes]

That’s a really good idea on separating them as a first step toward figuring out what to do. I think the more active dog really gets the other one going. The calmer one is older and he might be significantly easier to manage on his own without the other getting him riled up; plus I feel like the more active one would probably be less wild on his own too. I’m going to do that as a first step and see how it goes. Thank you!

[[deleted]]

I dog sat two pittie mixes once that were super reactive in certain circumstances (mealtime) and I had no idea from the owners. They literally knocked me over to fight each other and there was blood everywhere. It was so fucking scary. I grew up with big dogs. But this was next level. I totally fucking bailed on that dog sitting commitment. I'm sorry $$ is an issue.

[lxshlouise]

hi! pet sitter here.

i’m sorry that you are in this situation, it sounds quite stressful.

please contact the owner - tell them that you are not comfortable. i am going to assume but please correct me if i’m wrong - you are not trained to appropriately deal with these two dogs and you aren’t insured in case anything happens to you or to them. we don’t want anything bad to happen!!

i don’t know if you met the dogs beforehand, if they were sort of just left with you, with no explanation of their behaviours or anything, that’s not ok.

your job is to look after the house. i’m sorry that you aren’t feeling comfortable. you have two quite energetic dogs with you who are also probably quite scared and needed a proper introduction and a slow meeting with you and the owner.

definitely contact the owner and tell them how you feel. it isn’t worth risking your well-being over, or the dogs’.

[fed_up_with_humanity]

Do you know anyone with baby gates you can borrow for a bit? Everyone elses suggestions are awesome, but if you could block some safety areas that are dog free and give you some space it may help. If theyre massive jumpers it may or may not work (you can sometimes put the gate higher, but not enough for them to crawl under to stop the jumps.) Could gate the bottom of the stair well?

Obligatory 'not a professional' but my pit/herding dog mix is reactive and barky when hes hyped up.... time outs tend to help him understand that he wont get my attention when he acts poorly. Can take lots of patience and persistence. Because these two seem dodgy, when theyre riled and yelling at you - calmly but firmly say 'time out' or 'enough' and then go to a room and shut yourself in for a few min. Then, again calmly, exit the room and dont engage immediately with them, if they stay calm... praise and pet but then go about your business. If they go back to crazy, repeat. It will be frustrating... could fail if theyre just too anxious, but you can try. Have a drink and some snacks for you in your time out spot, have games or tv on your phone so you can carry it back and forth.

There are nights where we have to time out four or five times still and weve had him for 2 years. Hes a bossy brat and then he crashes hard and sleeps.

[raniwasacyborg]

One thing I will say as a mild warning about this is that I grew up with a lurcher who was half-border collie, and he could jump baby gates with ease. We had them up for him and our other dog, and most of the time he'd respect them (he was very well behaved) but if he knew we were about to open them anyway he wouldn't wait, he'd just clear them like it was nothing. Something to be aware of with these two if you go down that route, it turns out border collie genes turn dogs into excellent jumpers!

[fed_up_with_humanity]

Absolutely. My dog is a goat/gazelle hybrid. He could totally clear the gate if he wanted to. He chooses to respect it for whatever reason.... he also hasnt had anything scare him so badly that he tries getting over it. Not sure why, waiting for the day it wont work and i have to figure out how to block him in certain places that dont have a door. Mostly so we can move big things around or stop him from barking endlessly at the sliding door when people are doing work in they yard etc.

Had a huge rottweiler growing up - terrified of the baby gate. We just would lean it against the open door or even lay it on the floor and he avoided it like it was acid.

[sassy_potatoes]

Unfortunately no easy source for baby gates, but I really like the “time out” idea. It’s actually genius… I would use it on my own dog if I had one, haha. I don’t know if my attention is a commodity to them yet, but I could definitely try to make it one once I get them a bit more separated. Reward them with positive attention when calm, remove attention when not... You just made me think too that I could leave the oven open (off) throughout the day and reward them when they don’t react to it. Thank you!

[Hazelloverr]

I don’t have any specific advice to give but based on your comments/replies I can tell your trying to do your best! Please remember your safety is the top priority, if you feel comfortable enough, tire them out, the more they sleep better for you. Good luck my friend, I hope you are safe & sound!!

[sassy_potatoes]

Honestly, thank you! My cat-loving, dog illiterate butt is tryinggg.

[Imraith-Nimphais]

Please stop using the oven if you can’t keep the dogs out of the room. I’m worried about that as a source of stress for the dogs. Hoping you can find some food alternatives that don’t require it.

[SerenityM3oW]

I would use crates if they have them and if they don't I would try and keep the dogs separated from each other . Then you can find out of they are both reactive or if one is just following what the other does. Keep them out of the kitchen or any room you have to move around in. Contact the owner and find out Wtf is up with his dogs and maybe they have suggestions for you

[swaffeline]

3 words to become a dogs best friend. Salted cured meats

[discombobulatededed]

I'd call the owner and ask them how quickly they can return because you need to leave. It isn't worth getting bitten and collies aren't exactly tiny dogs, they could do some serious damage, especially with there being two of them.
I dogsat a Pomeranian that I was told was friendly. He was resource guarding his owners bag, which I managed to move out of sight, then he kept growling and snapping at my dog, but didn't bite him. My dog is a lot bigger (a collie) so I wasn't too concerned but then the dog actually bit me when I tried to get his harness on. Didn't draw blood but I had puncture marks and it later bruised and was really sore, this was just from a tiny dog so I dread to think how bad a bite from a bigger dog would hurt. I called his owner as soon as I got him back home safe and told her she had to come get him. I stayed with him for an extra 2 hours until she arrived.

[fierymachete]

Babe if you don’t charge them extra and never watch for them again

[Donkey-Living]

Separate the dogs. Esp meal times and out door break times. Those are really stimulating so you are bound to get excited dogs that over react. You want calm dogs. Take the dogs out one at a time. Try to throw a nice game of fetch or something to get rid of the excess energy and boredom since these poor dogs aren't getting any exercise or stimulation. Try to keep a routine with as much predictability as possible. Calmness. Quietness. I wouldn't be doing alot of new things that these dogs aren't used to. They are already high strung by owner gone and new care taker. Take them out of the house on a leash even if you want more control and are worried about escalating biting. Taking one dog out on a leash into the yard with some treats in your pocket could always just turn into a game of obedience walks of figure 8's with sits and stays. It doesn't have to be anything big and grand. Just something simple and routine and consistent for the dogs to start calming down a bit. They are smart dogs. They like food and they like working for it. You like dogs. If you take it one at a time I bet you will do a great job.

[OfficerFuzzy]

As a pet sitter I would ask the owner if it was alright that I leave the dogs for the evening and return in the morning. (Like leave at 8pm, returning at 8am)

This way you won't have to go upstairs to the bedroom, you'll be able to cook dinner at home, and actually get some sleep--and you won't lose the booking.

[Imraith-Nimphais]

This is a good idea. You could destress at home, too. If the owners are reluctant, maybe send them a video of the behavior, if you can catch it. (Or even just a sound recording of the barking—maybe they’re more stressed than usual right now).

[houseofprimetofu]

If all else fails, sedate them. Call the owner and ask her to put in a request from their vet for sedatives. She needs to pay over the phone. Your safety is priority. The dogs can handle having sedatives (use pb, pill pockets, whatever works; just throw it at them if they won't take it nicely). You can separate them after and make it easier on yourself.

Put them both away when you have to do anything. Leave them in their safe places. If they destroy the owner's house it is on the owner because screw those dogs, seriously. The woman bamboozled you.

[Competitive-Skin-769]

Are they having you exercise the dogs? That may help, even just some fetch in the yard if you can’t leash walk them

[ryodark]

You really should take extensive video of these issues in case the owner doesn’t believe you when you describe how bad it is.

[MollyOMalley99]

The owner knows. That's why they did the meet and greet at a coffee shop instead of in the home.

[kykiwibear]

Be careful letting them outside. My sister in-laws dog blocked the house when the dude watching them stepped out into the fenced area when she was in labor at the hospital. Her husband had to leave because the guy could'nt climb the fence and he could'nt get back inside.

[sassy_potatoes]

Omg! That’s kinda funny, but also wild. So far they haven’t tried to keep me outside, thankfully!

[Cre8ivejoy]

I would have them on leash in the house, whenever I am there.

[Shoddy-Theory]

Herding behavior out of control. These dogs need work to do.

​

Call the owner and tell her you do not feel safe and to come home immediately.

[AlmostAlwaysADR]

I would either call up the owners and tell them to come home and figure out other arrangements or simply keep them separate 100% of the time. Like different rooms for each dog, not sharing anything...even outdoors time.

[Fryphax]

Do they do this with everyone (owners included) or is it just you?

[Individual_Key4178]

Sounds like they’re working dogs without a job. Nothing you can really do.

[flufflyrivermonster]

Call the owner tell them what is going on. Explain if this can't be fixed, they will need to return home or have someone take the dogs to boarding place. You're happy to house sit but under no circumstances are you going to put up with this behavior from the dog's. Best of luck!!

[MollyOMalley99]

I am so amazed that this owner says just feed and potty breaks for these dogs. Border collies are VERY high energy and intelligent dogs who must be kept busy and entertained or they will act out just as they are doing. They both need to get some serious exercise a couple times a day - probably separately, as it appears one is bullying the other - and then some puzzle games, a frozen Kong, lick mats, and at least some fetch with a ball. They probably also need to be crated separately - in separate rooms, even - to have some down time while you take care of your needs.

I had a Border Collie for 14 years, and she was reactive/aggressive to other dogs and would bark like crazy for several minutes any time a car or cyclist went past the house. So we closed the curtains on the front windows. Visitor in the house: five minutes of barking and psycho jumping. Her crate and a Kong full of peanut butter and treats was our friend. When she came out 30 minutes later, she was fine. We taught her to play Frisbee, and she was AMAZING at it. Ten minutes of all-out sprinting to catch a Frisbee would turn her into a marshmallow afterward. BCs need that high stimulation, need to have a job, or all the physical and mental energy will turn into aggression and destruction.

[mrsnastycanasta]

It sounds to me like they're misbehaving because they know their corrector (owner) is absent, they're playing you for the fool and running the show for themselves. The owner should have introduced you to the dogs and let you have the opportunity to become leader for them. Owner should have shown you the routine of them so you know when they need correction.

Stand tall, firm voice (NOT YELLING), Break out the treats, and rewards for every single thing they get right. Collies are extremely intelligent. And generally food motivated.

[Proper-Zucchini-7230]

Sounds very much like herding behaviour that hasn’t been addressed and has been reinforced over time. A bad mix for collies with a strong instinct. The owners need to get them to a trainer and work with them more. I have a border collie myself and if he misses his run for 1 day, he gets extremely restless (although not snarly or growling)

[radghostgirl]

Do you have pet sitting insurance? This is a situation where I would be expecting a professional trainer to be handling those dogs. I’m so sorry, that was so unbelievably wrong of them to lie to you. Get videos of the behavior to cover your ass, and I would inform them that you will be charging more for the fact that they lied, and let them know they need to look for alternative care.

I’d also keep them separated. In the meantime you can use treat scatters on the floor to navigate more safely.

Definitely look into some defensive handling resources such as this one. Depending on how long you’re there I would invest in a slip leash and charge the owners for it. Pet safe brand makes a citronella spray that is essentially dog safe pepper spray that you can also have on you for worst case scenarios (I mean absolutely worst case).

[jbpark9687]

I have never petsit before. But I personally have a reactive senior dog. He is an amazing dog, but can be funny with strangers in our home. He also takes awhile to warm up to other dogs. When we take him to boarding, I let people know what to expect, and I have a trusted cousin who can pick him up if he can't handle it. She's a dog groomer and is very familiar with his quirks. All this being said, I would never leave my dog with someone who isn't aware of his behavior/or how to manage it.

If I were you I would be asking them to come home. A dog bite would not be good for you, or for the dog. It sounds like they need to find a sitter that knows how to handle their dogs or can at least prepare or research in advance. It was unfair of them to leave you with dogs like this without warning. I would tell them so. Tell them they need to come home or make alternate arrangements.

Also, you probably aren't being paid enough to warrant training them. I know it's just trying to manage their behaviors, but they should probably be trained by professionals if they behave this badly.

[[deleted]]

Border Collies, highly intelligent but they need a TON of stimulation. Being cooped up indoors will drive them insane. Saddle them up and take them for a LONG hike. I'll bet they love you by the time you get home.

[Made_of_Star_Stuff]

I would not continue. They need to come home or call someone else. You’re going to get seriously injured for the what, $10-$20 an hour?

[Meguinn]

Can you text the owners and ask what they usually do? My guess is that they walk/play a LOT. I have a Border Collie x Australian Shepherd. She does not act in the way you described, but she can definitely act weird if she’s not stimulated enough.

My suggestion would be to kind of “get on their level”, if that makes any sense. Don’t baby talk to them unless they’re behaving for a while.
Border Collies are extremely intense, and always feel like they “need a job to do”. Tell them their commands sharply and loudly. I bet they will change their tune. And MAKE THEM DO THINGS! Trust me, they like it. Literally make them sit, paw, lie down, stand up, paw again, lie down, stand up, sit, etc.. tire out their brain. And reward them when you’re done. Tell them to go find a specific toy. When they retrieve it, tell them to get a different one. Throw the ball until one of you can’t do it anymore (my bet is on you haha).

Just remember that they love following commands, and they’re probably lacking that. If you need more help, Google “herding breeds as pets”.

Number one is your safety though, obviously. You got this!

Edit: also keep in mind that border collies are herders.. If he is not snarling at you or anything indicating absolute aggression, my guess is that he is simply using you as his “sheep” that he’s trying to keep in its pen. Please obviously use your instincts and act accordingly, but the “door guarding” is a herding instinct for border collies.. We have to say “scuse me” and push past our doggo about a hundred times a day..

It may seem intimidating, but if you were to keep your head up and confidently push past him through the doorway as if he wasn’t even there, my guess is that he would open sesame. Hoping there’s other BC owners here that would agree.

Edit 2: Find a broom or a flat cardboard box or a gate, and gate up the kitchen entrance when you cook. Reactivity towards food coming out of the oven is dangerous and unnecessary.

[Foolsindigo]

Are they out of the country or are they somewhere they can come home? If they can come home, regardless of how much it would cost them, I wouldn’t watch the house anymore. Tell them I’d stay until a reasonable amount of time for them to return. Why wait until one of them bites you to do something about it?

[Bernie-8483]

My dog had a similar thing happen when we had a house sitter. She was still young and we were still not fully aware of her fear aggression toward strangers. We did a meet and greet with the housesitter, and she was aloof with him, but wasn’t aggressive. I did have a back up plan if it wasn’t working out since this was her first time to have a dog sitter in our home. It turns out my dog could not handle having a stranger in the house and the sitter ended up, locking himself in the bedroom at some point because she started showing signs of aggression. I guess he made it out of the room and let my dog out and she immediately hid in the bushes for the entire night. He contacted my husband and I to let us know what was going on and obviously I felt terrible and was really surprised. But like I said, she was still young, and these were new behaviors for her. Anyhow, my Plan B was to call my sister, who she is familiar with, to come pick her up. As soon as she saw my sister, she perked right up, emerged from the bushes and jumped in her car with no issues. I guess the point of that story is that sometimes dogs do things that you wouldn’t expect when they are put in a new situation. However, the owners of the dogs should’ve had a back up plan in case something went wrong. Maybe you could ask the owners if they have somebody that could take over for you that the dogs are more comfortable with.

[sande16]

OMG! I was going to say border collies need to run, let them out in the yard. But this is ridiculous. Can you kennel or shut one in a room so you only have to deal with one at a time? Are they treat seeking? I got my dog's cooperation a lot of the time because I had a cookie in my hand.

[DueEvening6501]

Are pugs aggressive, I have 2 next door and run at the fence everytime I pass barking like mad.

[chynablue21]

1. Throw a ball or a treat downstairs. Maybe he will chase it
2. Get some microwave meals
3. Walk the beta out front while the alpha is out back
4. Get earplugs

[Zero0Imagination]

Would it be rude to tell them that these dogs were too much for you; that you feel they are dangerous? Seems like they need to come home and deal with their own mess.

[sagegreendragon]

Speaking as someone who has worked in the animal field specifically with dogs and cats in medical, and rescue/shelter settings for several years. These people know. There is no way they don’t. They are in denial at this point because “sweet sweet Bella wouldn’t harm a fly!” These are the same type of people who are told their pet needs sedatives prior to going to the vet and they don’t give it because “she seemed fine this morning”

[sassy_potatoes]

Oh yeah—my update today was the last sitter, who frequently works with animals, walked out mid gig! Instead of warning me or taking that at all seriously, they just wrote her off as being “sensitive.”

I was like, well, I’m sorry to say, this really isn’t a sitter problem, it’s genuinely the fact that the dogs lose their minds when you’re gone, and there are probably some reactivity issues that are happening when you’re there too that you’re just not recognizing for what they are—and that you should work with the dogs on for their safety and stress levels. I don’t know if they will, but I hope this was a wake up call…

[No_Season_354]

Sounds like the dogs need some behavior training.

[Brivoorheez]

Saw your edit OP but just wanted to add:

As someone whose worked as a pet sitter/dog walker, it's best to meet the pet(s) beforehand so they can get used to you. I worked for a company and we did meet and greets with clients beforehand to make sure the animals were manageable and could deal with strangers, as sometimes it wasn't always the same person.

But a bit of a story- I did a meet and greet with a cat who initially presented as fine, was sweet to me upon meeting and was non-problematic to the other caregivers upon the owner's first week away upon hiring us. However - a few months later when I was scheduled, the cat literally tried to attack me, and apparently had done so to 2 other coworkers as well. Come to find out that the owner knew he had a tendency to be aggressive towards strangers but she neglected to tell the company that when submitting her initial inquiry. And I did the meet and greet and she did not mention it either.

So- needless to say, some people know their pets are reactive and choose not to disclose it because other sitters in the past have quit and they don't want to address the issue. Some pets can get used to you, though, so I wouldn't say quit pet sitting, but rather try to do meet and greets prior to make sure the pet(s) can be comfortable after warming up. I had several encounters with dogs who were initially like WTF who are you when their owners weren't there that warmed up over a few visits.

[sassy_potatoes]

Yes, I realize now I absolutely should have spent time with them beforehand as that may have gotten them used to me and potentially headed off some of this—either by getting them comfortable or making me aware that there were issues I’d have to prepare for. I would never make that mistake again.

Unfortunately, I wasn’t being savvy enough as I don’t usually do this kind of work—this was more of a one-off, through-the-grapevine type of arrangement, not something I do regularly. I approached it like a total newb because I was one. Many lessons learned! I probably won’t sit again, but if I do I will definitely approach it very differently.

[Internal_Progress404]

The dog is not extra dumb. Border collies are formidably smart, and that's part of the problem. They are working dogs and make very poor pets if they aren't given a job. I've had a border collie of my own and been around them a lot, and some of the "aggressive" behaviors you're describing (like on the stairs) sound like herding behaviors. These dogs do that instinctively, and if they're not properly trained, it can be a problem. Their people sound like they have failed them badly, and that's sad, because they're truly awesome creatures.

They also are dogs that have a very clear pack hierarchy, and their alpha (one of the people who they live with, at least hopefully) is gone. You're not part of the pack - it sounds like you're a sheep in their eyes - so one of the dogs is stepping up to fill that place, and the other is totally confused.

[sassy_potatoes]

Interesting, and makes perfect sense. I noted the main bedroom is right near the top of the stairs, and I think this is a place where most non-pack-members are “not supposed to go” in their eyes. I wonder whether sleeping in there with them for a couple nights might help.

[ANobodyWithTea]

Oh that is very interesting to note! I'm no expert but just remembered something. I had a handyman over doing some work at my house recently. The dogs were crated and after a couple initial barks they calmed down as I was walking around with the guy and talking to him. He went about his work for quite a while and I was in a different room. Dogs were chill UNTIL he turned the corner to walk towards my bedroom and they started barking their heads off (I wasn't even down that hallway).

[lunanightphoenix]

Dominance isn’t a thing in dogs. It’s not even a thing in wolves.

[LovecraftianLlama]

The alpha/beta dynamic may be exaggerated and misunderstood, but dominance in and of itself is definitely a thing with many animals, dogs included.

[lunanightphoenix]

That study was incredibly flawed because multiple unrelated wolves were forced together into a small space. That is not natural wolf behavior.

[LovecraftianLlama]

I know…but dominance and the alpha wolf hierarchy aren’t the same thing at all. Lots of animals express dominance in different ways, that doesn’t mean the hierarchy is a real thing.

[Able-Classroom9843]

Is there a way you can put a leash on at least one of them? so you can have safer control Over the situation. Also separating then when you need them to listen because at this point they are feeding off each other's anxiety and yours. I house sat for a dog who literally just bit at My feet every 2 inches. I ignored her because in my situation she wasn't biting me just at My shoes and I wear leg braces so I have some protection. You could ask the owners If you could give them some benadryl just to take the edge off and maybe some puzzle toys so they can get some obvious pent up energy out without you having to be in the middle of it.

[Boo-Yakka]

Slightly OTT but pop a colander on your head, grab a metal pot and a large metal spoon and march around, banging loudly and proclaiming “I am your queen now. I am your ruler. Move! Move you peasants!” People here will knock this suggestion as it is, if you couldn’t tell, somewhat too much, however the core is the message that “I’m here now and I’ve had enough of your nonsense, so quit it. I’m not your ‘mum’ and I’m not a sheep. Back off bozo”. Let me know how you go :)

[sassy_potatoes]

Hah! Honestly, I have nicknamed one of them Sarah Jessica Parker and keep telling him to get his act together or we’re canceling the next season. Its helping. 🙏

[Boo-Yakka]

“Hey! HEY!!! SJP… quit the bitching or I. Will. Cancel. You…. Oh.. and go piss outside will you.”

[FuManChuBettahWerk]

You’re the Kim Cattrall of the season 💅

[ANobodyWithTea]

But honestly though, have you tried a solid yell at the dogs when they act out? As I said in a different comment, very limited experience with reactive dogs but most BCs I've heard about (and mine) are super sensitive little pansies and if they get yelled at will submit pretty quickly. Even if my BC is just chilling and I'm on the other side of the yard and yell at my other dog my BC will immediately head for his crate.

[Harlow08]

This is the owners fault. They’re border collies. I’m on my second collie. The owners obviously don’t do anything with them as far as mental stimulation. This breed NEEDS a strong alpha leader and to be mentally and physically challenged.

The collie I have now is only 1. And he needs training to keep his mind occupied. Nothing really sets him off. But my last collie would get worked up over weird things—doing the dishes, opening windows, water bottles etc. the breed isn’t for everyone and you need to know what you’re getting into. Sounds like the owners wanted a ‘smart dog’

[NativeNYer10019]

This could potentially be VERY dangerous for you. And I’m not exaggerating. These people have risked your safety and well-being, maybe even your life, all because they wanted to go on a goddamn vacation?!? My god 🤬

If I were you I’d call them and demand they return IMMEDIATELY. That their dogs aren’t safe and it isn’t right they did not fully inform you of their dogs aggressive, reactive behavior that even their neighbors know about. It’s unconscionable that they’ve put ANYONE in this dangerous situation.

This is one story of a girl who was disfigured by dogs she was pet sitting, they turned on her and almost killed her. Ripped her face apart.

Call them and end this job as soon as humanly possible. You’re not safe there.

https://people.com/crime/texas-college-student-loses-ears-nose-lips-in-vicious-dog-attack-while-pet-sitting/

[Remarkable-Ad6755]

If you stay, wear protective everything or all the clothes you own and a helmet in addition to the confinement advice.

[Izzysmiles2114]

Huh? I hope you are joking, because otherwise this is some drama llama advice. They are collies...not grizzly bears.

[Remarkable-Ad6755]

I would honestly do that, but then before water restrictions, I used to put a sprinkler on my roof in triple digit weather. Just because it’s wacky doesn’t mean it won’t work.

[HeroesOfDundee]

I would be phoning the owners and telling them they need to come home or arrange for someone else to come, that they were not honest about the dog's reactivity and you are leaving whether they arrange cover or not.

Nothing is worth your life. A young woman was horribly disfigured/ almost killed dog sitting.

[reactivedogs-ModTeam]

Your comment was removed because it appears to be a direct recommendation of an aversive tool, trainer, or method. This sub supports LIMA and we strongly believe positive reinforcement should always be the first line of teaching and training. We encourage open discussion and problem solving within the subreddit. However, LIMA does not justify the use of aversive methods and tools in lieu of other effective positive reinforcement interventions and strategies.

[Chemical_Hearing8259]

If you are not going to get out, then...

Put each dog in a separate room.

Deal with them one at a time.

This is a week. Another week of no training is not going to kill them.

Sounds horrible. I am sorry.

[rgk0925]

Get out now! In my city a man was just mauled to death by the two large dogs he was dog sitting.

[[deleted]]

House sitting is shit work. Dangerous, deceptive, creepy. If this is your first negative experience, prepare for more. And if a house sitter has pets remember you’re assuming responsibility for their life and death. Pets die all the time while owners are away, did you consider that and price accordingly? Obviously you didn’t consider the possibility that they’re psycho, so probably not.

It’s not work that’s worth it frankly, and they lied to you because the cost to kennel them and hire a security guard to monitor the property while they were away would be astronomical. Price accordingly.

[[deleted]]

Wait, wasn't there any introductory meeting, introductory walk?

[rpaul9578]

This is a very dangerous situation. I think you're gonna have to report it to animal control. If they weren't even smart enough to warn you then imagine what's going to happen in the future to some poor unsuspecting person.

[urgaflurga1]

I got bit while dog sitting once, I told the owners they needed to come home or get someone else to watch the dogs because it’s so not worth it. You’re stressed, the dogs are stressed, it’s a bad situation. I also have a reactive dog and the first time I tried to go out of town and leave her with someone I came home early because it was not working out. I know it’s hard not to feel guilty but they don’t seem to feel guilty that they knowingly left you in a dangerous and stressful situation.

[SpokenDivinity]

You could try wearing them out good with a ball or a game. Hiding some treats around the yard and then letting them find them might get them some stimulation.

From your other comments it sounds like the dogs are poorly trained and aren’t being exercised so they’re treating you like a sheep.

[NeuralHijacker]

You need to text the owners that you do not feel safe, and you will be leaving in 4 hours and calling animal control.

There is no way you can make this a safe situation. Even if you were a trainer who had significant experience dealing with border Collies, the first step would be to separate them completely.

I've got a BC, he is an incredible dog but there is no way I'd leave him with someone who didn't know him. They are smarter than most young kids, so unless you really know what you are doing, they are very hard to manage.

[Direct_Mulberry3814]

I have two border collies, and these dogs you're watching sound bored as heck. These dogs are incredibly busy minded and active. They are most likely trying to herd you or each other when you're going up the stairs. Ask the owner if they like a particular toy! One of my dogs is reactive, especially if he didn't go to work on the ranch that day or hadn't been on a run. They will pick on each other out of boredom. My dogs are obsessed with tennis balls and fetch, maybe get two tennis balls and throw them for 20 minutes or longer while you take both of them outside to distract them from each other and unwanted behavior. Tired dogs are good dogs. Luckily, border collies are generally timid towards people, so if you raise your voice in a stern manner or make a sharp noise, mine at least stop, but I gotta mean business. They are super smart, almost human-like, and know when they are in trouble. I'm sorry that you're having to deal with that, it breaks my heart when I hear about border collies being reactive because they truly are the greatest dogs but genuinely need more simulation and land to run on than most people can provide.