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Thanks Deb and D!
My gut feel was to let her 'just be' for as long as she needs simply because every living creature needs to adjust within their own space and time. It's good to hear reinforcing opinions.
Just after I posted, I spent a few moments with her and just did what her owners do ... practise simple commands like 'sit' and treat. All the other dogs were fenced off for the time being. She was very, very hesitant at first, but accepted the treats after the third try.
What I find interesting is that in the 3 fear anxiety / growling / once snapping moment, there were almost 'invisible' vibesI picked up - the first being fear (growl / snap) , the second instance being protection (growl / bark) and the third being low, prolonged growls. Just after penning her for the night, one of my girls went to sniff her pen, and she let out a comparatively viscious series of barks (difference in tone - not defensive but vcerging on the offense). That was when I reacted (unlike earlier instances) and issued two very stern 'NO's with a direct eye-to-eye stare (probably with my nostrils flaring at the same time! LOL!)!!! As expected, she backed down. I left the room and after 10 minutes, came back with some treats which I gave to her after giving her a 'sit' command (which she followed). Following the treat, I stroked her and praised in a slow, reassuring tone (higher pitch).
Am I doing the right thing?
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