We recently (4 weeks ago) added a new member to our family: a 7 month old female maltese. We already have a 14 year old Old English Sheepdog and a 5 year old Maltese, both neutered males. I wanted another Maltese and decided that now was a good time, out old guy is sadly nearing end of life and the 5 year old is already missing having a buddy to play with. I thought the new dog would ease the transition when the time came for my old guy to leave. I worried so over how the three dogs would integrate that I never considered there would be problems with the humans.
The dogs bonded immediately. The three get along as if they have been together forever. The boys adore the girl and follow her around like she is the Queen of all there is. Sophie (the new Malt) came out of her crate at the airport wagging her tail and giving me kisses, she seemed to know immediately that I was Mom.
The problem is my Husband. She hates him, is terrified of him, growls and runs when he approaches. He is a very nice person, kind and gentle and loves the dogs. She hates him. His feelings are hurt. I have tried the traditional advice: he gives her special treats (which she will now take from him-which is progress), he feeds her, never stars at her and generally does not react to her barking. For my part I do not try to comfort her when she barks and growls at him but try to ignore her til she calms down.
She came from a very reputable breeder, was reportedly socialized and taken to shows as a puppy. I have no reason to believe that she was ever abused or mistreated by a man.
Am I expecting too much too soon? Is there anything else I can do to convince her that doggy daddy is a really nice guy and it would be in her best interest to make peace with him? She was recently spayed and according to the Vet staff did growl at some of them, so far the only person I have seen her growl at is DH. The growl never turns aggressive, she has never nipped and generally is she growls when he approached she stops when he picks her up.
HELP?