Socialization help please!

[kl4evr]

Hello. Just found the forum, so I'm hoping you can all help me with the issue we're having.

We have had a female shih tzu for two and a half years since she was a puppy and she's great! My in-laws also have a shih-tzu who is a little older and a little smaller and they are great friends.

Here's the problem.

We recently adopted a 3 yr. old shih tzu/poodle mix from a shelter. He's a real sweetheart and loves to play. He is interested in our current dog, but just to play, not aggressively at all. The problem is, our current dog (Tootsie) is scared of him. The first day she would cower away when he came anywhere near her and stay on top of the couch to avoid him.

The second day, she got a little braver and would go on the floor and stay behind a table or something and would not run away completely when he came near her. So she seems to be getting slightly better, but I need to know if it's just a process of if this new dog will completely change her playful, excited person(or dog)ality.

Sorry for the long post and I appreciate your help.

Kevin

[Carrie]

I don't think the new dog's personality will change. When did you adopt her? It sounds like your little dog who's afraid of her wasn't socialized enough which is causing her to be afraid. I think the best thing you can do is just make sure the new dog doesn't bug the current dog too much....not that she is too intrusive. In time, I'm guessing your current dog will get use to this one and be just fine. You could give them treats like a little party. Have them both come over to you in a happy way, ask for a sit or something. When your dog is calm and not cowering, but coming up for the treat next to the other one, (if she will) give a special treat and some praise. Even if she comes part way near, make a cheerful response....and just gradually encourage a little closeness. Don't push it. When the dog is cowering and staying away, ignore. Don't make a fuss over that behavior.

Let us know how it goes.

Sorry for the long post and I appreciate your help

You don't know what long is....LOL.

[ChiChi]

lol carrie! yea i totally agree with what Carrie said, she might not of been socilized enough.... but that is okay, i am taking my dog out to petsmart today and i dont kno if i did the best job on socializing him..... so will find out

[flyndog]

I wouldn't be so quick to assume that the new dog isn't being a little too bold for your dog and that she had every right to run away from him. Dogs don't automatically like every other dog they meet. They're like people that way. I personally run away when boisterouos people I don't know try to say hello by hugging me! She sounds like she is willing to get to know the new dog, but on her terms. Nothing wrong with that.
Kit