nervous puppy

[horsies4coursies]

hey guys, thought i would give you an update on eithin and also ask some advice. We're now at 12 wks and have been fully vaccinated and have now been out for some walks around the local area. My query is this, when she meets new dogs she tends to squeak, we thought at first it might be fear because unfortunately our first walk we got mobbed by 5 loose young dogs and whilst no aggression was shown i think we were both a tad shocked - though i didn't show my worry and praised her and gave her rewards for positive behaviour.

when she now meets other dogs she squeaks and throws herself into a submissive pose but doesn't urinate or show other signs of fear she won't get out of this pose to then sniff and play - am just worried that there is a problem with how she now see's other dogs and unless i help her become slightly more brave that i will end up with a nervous bitch - which i really do not want. Although i have had lots of dogs in my life they have always been rescues or unwanted ones so this is my first pup and i want to make as few mistakes as possible ... (if thats possible)

if i am being a complete worry wart please feel free to tell me i would rather know i'm being a lemon than not

otherwise she is great - she's sitting on command, recalling on lead really well and we very nearly have stay......though we're not pushing too hard as i feel she may be a tad young.......

thanks for reading down this far, dog biscuits and wine for all

 

[Spudlet]

Are you taking her to a puppy class? If not I would suggest you find one, as there will be other puppies there for her to socialise with, and the instructor should be able to help you make sure she has a good experience

 

[MurphysMinder]

As Spudlet say, a good puppy class will help her learn to socialise. Also if you have friends with sensible dogs try and have some one to one sessions with them, ideally off lead as long as you are able to step in if you think she is being overwhelmed.

 

[zoelouisem]

I had this problem with my pup he's now 5 months, I have another 4 year old. When I walked just them together he would scream petrified at every unknown dog despite meeting friends nice dogs . So took him with 2 friends so there was a group of 4. Completely solved the problem and actually played in a big group with others.

 

[horsies4coursies]

thanks for all the help guys hadn't actually thought to take her to puppy classes as she socialises with other dogs at work but will look into it tomorrow - will keep you updated

 

[Bosworth]

Find her an adult dog to play with, a calm, sane friendly fun one. And leave her to it. Do not become protective over her, so don't pick her up and cuddle her. If you can find a bunch of friendly dogs that all play together then put her with them. Sh eneeds to learn to fend for herself and interact. Some of the dogs at my ringcraft class are treated as soooooooo precious they are not allowed to sniff others, or play with others, as a result many are fear agressive and nervous.