Scout, a good dog

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FHDs' intelligence and knowledge can make them great companions ... if you can work with them and give them what they need. If you don't think you're up for the task, consider something like a border collie or a husky instead. (29/29)

If you've read all this and still think a formerly human dog is right for you, make sure to source your FHD ethically. A lot of FHDs out there were cursed or tricked into their species. The process often leaves you stuck with an escape artist, a dog that hates you, or a puddle of fear. (28/n)

My current FHD, however, understands that he needs to take his pills and will take them before going to take a drink of water to get rid of the taste. However, unlike my first FHD, he hates getting his nails trimmed and had to be reminded what might happen if he started biting people. (27/n)

FHDs, as I mentioned up-thread, vary wildly in their behavior. Take meds. My first FHD's reaction to meds was to sit right next to the pantry, sometimes bapping at the door with her paw, and to wiggle away from her pills until I got out the peanut butter bribe she knew she should get. (26/n)

However, FHDs have very little experience being around other dogs, and often find those interactions scare or embarrassing. You'll need to slowly get your FHD used to doggy socializing, and may want to consider a mixed FHD/general dog trainer if the problem is severe. (25/n)

Formerly human dogs tend to be well-socialized around humans because they used to be humans. If you tell them the person at the door is a plumber, they'll often stay out of the way (after getting some pets) and won't need to be left in another room, while still going after burglars. (24/n)

I've also heard of FHDs making their opinions about which vet they do/don't want to see extremely clear, even though they don't have human vocal cords anymore, or, like mine, having strong feelings about food. While frustrating, such opinions will help you take good care of your FHD. (23/n)

Take a vet visit: FHDs usually remember why they'll need one, and frequently try to cooperate. But if they don't like some aspect of the process (often getting shots) they'll know what's coming and know which struggle to save their energy for. (22/n)

FHDs can also sometimes be reasoned with since they have a uniquely strong grasp on human speech. If you get a formerly human dog, you'll often be surprised at how much can be solved by explaining things to them. But your FHD can also get very stubborn if they don't feel in control enough. (21/n)

FHDs that start acting up - especially if they're being careful not to cause real damage - are usually trying to get your attention about some need but can't use human words anymore. Try to understand what's going on or give them a better outlet before jumping to punishment. (20/n)

However, FHDs will sometimes - even once they've mostly adjusted - sometimes have moments of realization about what they are. You'll be playing fetch and they'll freeze (or bolt) and whimper as, I think, their loss of humanity registers with them. Pets and reassurances usually help here. (19/n)

FHD behavior is a complex topic. FHDs usually know how humans want dogs to act. If, through their innate desires and training, they've decided to be good, you won't need to worry about most typical dog issues. Most FHDs even know how leashes work and will back up to not get tangled on trees. (18/n)

This doesn't mean you won't get plenty of whining if they don't agree with the reason for the disruption, but, unless they're a particularly low-humanity FHD sub-breed, they'll know what's going on. FHDs will also pick up on complex human stressors and may go to comfort you about them. (17/n)

FHDs, like many other intelligent dog breeds, have a keen sense of routine. You *will* be hassled out of bed for breakfast or a walk. Unlike other breeds, you can explain changes in routine to an FHD. They understand that dinner will be late today because you need to go to the doctor. (16/n)

However, FHDs will often have their own opinions on their care. Many FHD owners have come home to a very wet bathroom and a lot of wet dog smell because their FHD decided to try and bathe themselves. FHDs are also prone to arranging their own mealtime or playtime if they want that now. (15/n)

FHDs know a lot about themselves. For example, they'll know they should shake out their wet fur outside (or wait to get toweled off), especially if you offer them a treat for it. They also understand the idea of haircuts and baths, and usually don't make trouble at the groomer's. (14/n)

Therefore, make sure to FHD-proof your home, especially if it's built to modern code. FHDs generally know *why* to open doors and cabinets, and will quickly work out how to do so with their new paws. Use methods that rely on FHDs' limited dexterity - they're *extremely* clever dogs. (13/n)

Them knowing about human objects will work against you too. Many FHDs can read clocks, for instance. My FHD will get very insistent and start trying to take my phone if I told him we'll go on a walk at 5 PM and it's time. FHDs are also hard to buy puzzles for since they know the deal. (12/n)

FHDs, unlike other dogs, know a lot about household objects. This means they can fetch the TV remote or their leash without being taught what those are. They can recognize when you're busy, and might even try to help with your chores instead of bothering you for attention at a bad time. (10/n)

Now, with all the abstract advice out of the way, I'll go over some of the everyday advantages and hassles of living with an FHD. Feel free to add your own in the replies. (9/n)

In particular, if you'll need complex tasks or want to train your FHD as a service dog - something they're usually fantastic at - be careful with dogs who've had their humanity "broken". You'll usually need to get through a lot of fear and trauma from that breaking to get what you need. (8/n)

Similarly, if you're adopting an FHD, make sure to ask about how they've adapted to their new species and life and what training methods were used. This will affect, for better and worse, how human-like your FHD is willing to be once they're in your home. (7/n)

On that note, I *strongly* recommend not creating an FHD against their will unless you're an experienced FHD owner or creator. FHDs that are actively fighting their new role can be dangerous if you don't know the right techniques. Note: simple compulsions against harm aren't enough. (6/n)

If you have some input into how your FHD comes into this world, consider carefully how much of their mind to preserve. If possible, use a modern selective ablation method - FHDs do need to know that they shouldn't eat chocolate, but don't need to know how to file taxes. (5/n)

However, a high-humanity FHD will cause their own problems. Their keen understanding of words and the human environment can work against you - they'll know which cable to unplug to get you off your phone, say. They'll need a lot of stimulation to keep them from getting bored and destructive. (4/n)

FHDs that have had more of their humanity suppressed will be harder to reason with, make more impulsive decisions, get into more trouble, and act more like other dogs. The more canine their minds are, the harder it will be to teach them those complex tasks FHDs are renowned for. (3/n)

This thread is about formerly human dogs (FHDs for short) that still retain some of the memories, understandings, or intelligence from their old human life. How much humanity an FHD retains can vary wildly depending on how they were transformed, their temperament, and how they're trained. (2/n)

[[ This is a work of fiction. Any resemblance etc etc. Aka I'm back on my nonsense. ]]

So, you're looking to get - or create - a formerly human dog? FHDs are a unique dog breed that can do things few other dogs can, but they come with challenges even experienced dog owners may not be ready for because of their unique skills and intelligence. Thread (1/n)