Dog Community

Question about bonding

Posted : 7/11/2006 10:04:38 PM

Hi Everyone, just signed up here. Love what I've seen so far. We just adopted a dog from the shelter. She's a 7 (or 8 or so) month old Lab/Whippet (we think) cross. She was a stray pick-up, so we really don't know much about her at all, though I don't know why somebody wouldn't have come and claimed her. She's an incredibly sweet dog, very mild mannered, however she's also not the most friendly yet. We've never had an older dog from a shelter before, so I'm wondering how long I should expect before she's showing signs of being comfortable in her new home. So far, she's not really even eating or anything. Also, any suggestions for things I can do with her to promote bonding and whatnot with her? Any help would be greatly appreciated. I think from what I can tell she's going to be a great dog and learn things pretty quick, so I just need her to not be quite as shy so I can work with her. Thanks in advance for all your help.

Xebby

Posted : 7/11/2006 10:19:26 PM

Hello and welcome to the forum!

I have noticed wippets by nature are somewhat shy dogs and Labs are very outgoing so what you might have a dog that is more one than the other when it comes to behavore or somehing right in the middle of the two breeds. It's so hard to say what you will get from a mix.

You dog just needs time to adjust to everything new. Some will be adopted and blend right in, others will take some time. You could offer her treats from your had to make her feel safe around you. If you have a dog bed place it next to your bed and allow her to sleep in your room at night. Most of all don't scold her right off the back. She doesn't know your rules yet, the best way to teach is through praise.

agilebcs

Posted : 7/12/2006 6:18:14 AM

A great way to start bonding is to start handfeeding her her meals. At the same time you can work on basic obedience like sit and down. You can also always carry treats on you so that you can randomly treat her thru the day. You said that she doesn't really want to eat - what brand of kibble are you feeding her?

It may take several weeks for her personality to show thru so just be patient with her and be very positive with lots of praise. I would also be very structured with her right now so that she learns a routine around your house and with you. This can help build confidence in shy dogs.

Good luck with her!

forpaws

Posted : 7/12/2006 6:59:17 AM

Hi and welcome to the forum. Bless you and your family for taking in a shelter dog.
In addition to what others have already posted, my two cents is just give it time. It will be a minimum of three weeks for her to adjust to her new surroundings and sounds. She will bond with you and your family.
Give her a kiss for me.
The price to pay here is to post a picture of your new companion.. WE love pic's....

Vince

Posted : 7/12/2006 11:31:57 AM

Thank you for all the advice. She's eating a little bit this morning and much more playful, though still a little hesitant. I've worked with her a little this morning on sit. I'm guessing somebody worked with her at least a little. I was worried becuase yesterday I tried working with her some, but she wouldn't even eat a treat, but this morning was quite fond of them. It's worked out really well, we were told she wasn't housebroken at all nor was she crate trained, but she's told us when she wants to go outside and seems quite fond of her crate, so I'm happy. Other than that, I'm trying to be as positive as possible with her, so hopefully things go well. I'll post pics when I have a little more time.

spiritdogs

Posted : 7/13/2006 7:59:17 PM

I'm glad she's doing better. Be patient - some shelter dogs take a few months to really adjust and realize that you will always be there...