Fearful Indy...

    • Gold Top Dog

    Fearful Indy...

    What to do??  We got Indy when he was five months old.  DH left for Iraq the following month.  Indy is now 14  months old.  DH came back from Iraq last Saturday, and Indy has turned into a different dog.  He is so fearful now, slinking around the house with his tail tucked between his legs.  The slightest thing sends him scurrying away to hide- a raised voice, a dropped dish towel, shaking the wrinkles out of a pair of shorts, sweeping the floor.  Indy just stares at DH, waiting to run away if DH makes any quick move.  Instead of hanging out with us in whatever room we are in, Indy now retreats to my son's room and sleeps under the bed.  Indy is somewhat friendly to DH, greets him with a tail wag and than takes off.  It's crazy!  DH is convinced I've been beating the dog while he's been gone!  What can I do to make this easier on Indy?  I feel so bad for him because he is now terrified in his own house.
    • Gold Top Dog
    OK, you pretty  much have a stranger to Indy living with you.  What I would do is have DH take over much of the care...the fun stuff like feeding, going for walks, tossing a ball, etc.  Leave the baths and nail clipping to you.  Indy will start to see him as a nice guy, not to be afraid of.  Try letting Indy eat from his hand.  I'm sure others will have more ideas.
    • Gold Top Dog
    Off to a good start with Marty's advice. The only thing I have to add is have DH get on his knee's to make himself appear smaller. I am assuming son is shorter than Dad. And have him never touch or reach over Indy's head. To pet Indy, have him approach the chest area with open palm first until Indy is ready for him to touch his head or back.  Last, let DH be the endless treat giver to Indy. Watching TV, walking, touching, whatever.....

    I am sure there will be more to add here... Good luck.