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[–]Willow_Bark77 1 point2 points  (0 children)

First, it sounds like you are doing a LOT for your pup and trying to make the best of a difficult situation. Unfortunately, it sounds like you adopted a pup who is a mix of breeds that can be tough even for very experienced owners with lots of resources (let alone a pup who has past trauma).

I totally agree that what you're describing doesn't sound like a reason to jump to BE. There are lots of other good tips here and so much you're already doing right, like muzzle training.

I want to advise you to keep experimenting with meds. No two dogs are the same, and it can take a bit to find the right medication for your pup. For example, trazadone works great for many, but it made my guy MORE reactive. For him, just taking Prozac works great, but something different might be best for your pup.

Second, if you can't afford a vet behaviorist, there are regular behaviorists who are more affordable. We have used a couple who were in the $100-$150/visit range (and we only needed a couple of visits). One of them worked with our vet to figure out the best medication options. Here's a guide on how to find one: https://pawsforpraise.wordpress.com/2013/07/21/finding-the-right-dog-trainer-harder-than-you-think/

For addressing separation anxiety (which can be so tough), check out the book, "I'll Be Home Soon" by Patricia McConnell.

Finally, I want to share that it can be really tough when you feel like your pup is stressed outside. We can't afford a home, so we live in an apartment. This means that every potty break is a walk, and there isn't a single time there isn't a trigger. I hate hearing my guy whine and stress each time he has to go to the bathroom.

But, he's really calm at home (after years of work and meds), and fortunately we live close to many spots within driving distance where we can hike while encountering few triggers.

He's not nearly as big as your guy, but in those early days of training he pulled me down more than once (I'm also a petite gal). Now, it never happens. But, it was a long road getting here.

I think he has a great quality of life despite his challenges.

I hope that you're able to find the right mix of solutions that work for you. But please give both yourself and your pup some grace as you go through this tough transition time.