Typically the process for an SDE database is something like this: 1. As the SDE user, create a schematic dataset 2. If you don't want SDE to be the owner, this dataset can now be deleted (leaves behind 3 critical system tables) 3. Now as the user you do want to own the dataset, create a new schematic dataset and go through the normal configuration steps.
For assigning permissions to an existing dataset, you need to use ArcCatalog and right-click the dataset and then choose the Privileges command and go through the process.
Typically the process for an SDE database is something like this: 1. As the SDE user, create a schematic dataset 2. If you don't want SDE to be the owner, this dataset can now be deleted (leaves behind 3 critical system tables) 3. Now as the user you do want to own the dataset, create a new schematic dataset and go through the normal configuration steps.
For assigning permissions to an existing dataset, you need to use ArcCatalog and right-click the dataset and then choose the Privileges command and go through the process.