Timid Behavior in Rescue Dogs

Giving a rescue dog a new home can be extremely rewarding, as the dog is being given a second chance, and the new owner has chosen to adopt a dog that otherwise might not have a future. Sometimes people have reservations about rescue dogs, because they assume the dog has been rejected by the original owner because of behavioral problems. This is often not the case. It may be just that the original owner may no longer be able to give the commitment needed to the dog.

  1. Possible Causes of Timidity

    • A rescue dog may have some past bad experiences that cause it to be timid.

      Like people, dogs do have innate character traits. In her book, "The Seven Ages of Your Dog," Jan Fennell tells the reader that even when the litter of pups is very small, there are those that will dominate, when it comes to feeding time, and those that get knocked back and have to fight for their food. This might play a part in why a rescue dog seems timid, but obviously the rescue dog will also have had life experiences and will have learned particular behavioral responses.

    Rescue Centers

    • Rescue dogs may just be naturally shy.

      Rescue centers are full of dogs whose owners could no longer supply the attention or financial commitment necessary for the animal's well-being. This is as likely to be about the previous owner, as it is about the dog. Indeed, even if the dog has behavior issues, this may be because it has not been trained properly. Nevertheless, the new owner should ask the center for as much detail as possible about the background of the dog.

    Signs of Timidity

    • The dog's stance may be wary, and he may shrink back when physically approached. His tail will be down and he may slope away. Much patience will be required to gain the trust of a dog like this. He should be spoken to in a gentle way, and should be allowed to socialize gradually at a slow pace. It may be that the dog is better with the new owner, but reacts very nervously when visitors arrive,

      or when another dog is in the vicinity.

    Progress

    • The new owner needs to be very patient and try to understand the reasons for the dog's timid reactions. The dog may even wet the floor because of fear. The owner should not reprimand the dog as this is not his fault. A good dog training class may help the dog gain confidence around other dogs. Many shy, timid dogs will improve with a caring new owner.

    Solutions

    • Though the new owner is caring and patient, the problem may seem intractable. The rescue dog may still run away and hide when visitors call, or show fear in the presence of other dogs. Sometimes the owner may unconsciously be reinforcing this behavior by becoming anxious. This anxiety communicates itself to the dog. Sometimes, the owner may need to let the dog set the pace, and also expect any progress to be gradual. If in doubt, the owner should speak to a vet or reputable dog trainer.