Shy Sadie

[LoveMySadie]

What is the best way to work with a shy dog to overcome her shyness? When I first met Sadie at the breeder's, she leapt into my lap and settled in for good. But once she got to our house, she began showing signs of shyness with strangers - hiding behind my legs before slowly coming out to accept a proffered hand. Her shyness has increased with the puppies here.

Once they are all gone, I want to start working on her shy behavior. I didn't want to add any stresses to her during her first three months with us - other than a new home, new friend (Hank), new pregnancy, and then new puppies! :SHOCKED: :EEK: :SHOCKED:

But soon we will be ready to begin working with her. What's the best approach?

All suggestions are welcome!!

Leslie

[taflar]

What is the best way to work with a shy dog to overcome her shyness? When I first met Sadie at the breeder's, she leapt into my lap and settled in for good. But once she got to our house, she began showing signs of shyness with strangers - hiding behind my legs before slowly coming out to accept a proffered hand. Her shyness has increased with the puppies here.

Well, a shy dog does not greet you the way she did. Wait till the puppies are weaned and all those hormones gone and then see how she acts.

I don't see how she's acting as shyness, but as being unsure of her surroundings. Personally, I'd ignore it and let her warm up to people on her own.

I had one who I bought from another breeder where she was mostly in a kennel. She was very timid when we first got her. We didn't do anything special, didn't make her meet people, just let her if she wanted. About a year later she would race to the door with other dogs and be eager to meet people. Just give her some time.

Peggy

[Fluffypants]

You can also have your guests offer her a treat. Then she will start to think new people = treats, and they will be a lot more welcome in her eyes! :CUTE: