by Jenna Obney

Created on: November 13, 2008

When rescuing a dog from a shelter it's easy to pick the one of the cute and happy puppies to bring home. Sometimes though, there is a dog sitting in the back, so sad and helpless that your heart goes out to them. You decide this is the dog for you. You want to show them that there is more to life than what they have already been subjected to. I applaud you for doing the brave and kind thing. But what do you do once you have gotten this timid little rescue dog home?

You would think that just bringing him to your wonderful happy home, full of love and toys and affection, would be enough to make him perk up and take notice. It's not that easy though. Most likely he thinks you are just another in a long line of humans that have disappointed him, hurt him, abandoned him. This will make him less than eager to make friends or trust you.

Earning a timid dog's trust is a test of patience, but the rewards are well worth it. Start by letting your dog get a feel for the house. Be in the same room as him, but don't crowd. Let him take in the sights and smells, and get used to you being there but unobtrusively. Be careful of sudden movement or loud sounds. This can scare a timid dog into thinking something bad is going to happen and sometimes can lead to a snap or growl as the dog tries to defend himself.

At feeding time put the food down and walk away. Standing over the dog or too near the bowl might make him fear that you are going to take it away. You need to prove to him that you are not going to do anything to harm him. Go about your normal business as if he wasn't even in the room. Once he learns that you are not going to take his food or yell at him he will begin to relax.

Use casual and relaxed touches to get the dog used to you. When walking by you might reach out and scratch an ear. Or maybe keep treats in a pocket and hand one out when you are headed his way. This will also help the dog to see that you are a genuinely nice person who wants to love and protect him.

Be careful of being too overwhelming. It can be irresistible to want to grab your dog and pull them to you. Giving them all the cuddles and love you feel they have been missing. A dog who has never had much affection will be fearful of this kind of closeness and it could hurt more than help.

It will be slow going at first but as time passes you will notice that spark come into your dog's eyes. You will see the tail start to wag when you come into a room. Before long he will be crawling up into your lap for the kisses and cuddles that you have longed to give him.

Taking the time and patience, and giving the love and affection that is needed to bring a timid dog around will not only be character firming for yourself, but the ultimate reward is a wonderful loving and loyal dog who will never forget the person who took the time to show him what life was all about.

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