How to help an abused German Shepherd?

Question

I adopted a 4 yr old female German Sheperd the other day. She shows no aggression. Doesn't mind my 2 yr old, or the cats. I though she was just shy, but when I brought her home she stays in the corner. She doesn't wag her tail, or look for attention. She just lays there. No aggressive behavior, just sadness. Like ahe doesn't know how to play. She acts like someone just ordered her around because she is very obedient. The owner said the previous owner had her as an army dog. How do I friendly her up?

I also eanted to add, the only reason I think she was abused is because she is so submissive. If she showed any agression, she wouldn't be in my home. She listens so well, no accidents, good dog. There is just something about her that is sad.

Answer 1

I run a canine hospice and I have welcomed many abused, neglected, and abandoned animals and the one thing that is so cool is to watch them blossom like flowers as they learn to trust you. It takes patience and consistent love to get them to bloom. Some took only a few days, some took weeks, some took months, but patience and love won out and too watch an animal like that bloom is simply priceless! Bless you for what you are doing...when it's time for her to cross the Bridge, she will know her life was not in vain, that not every human is cruel, and she will take your love with her forever and ever! :)

Answer 2

Did you just bring her home? Give her some time to adjust to her new surroundings - she's probably feeling more than a little lost and insecure. Treats, petting, love, and time. Maybe get down on the floor at her level and sit with her, just petting her and letting her know that it's okay, and hopefully she'll come out of her shell.

I would be careful and keep an eye on the two year old, don't let the little one be too hyper or bouncy around her until she's had time to adjust. She's basically been put into a completely different environment than she's used to, and needs time to realize that it's okay and it's not going to hurt her.

Answer 3

woah
your dogs story reminds me of all the dog books I read as a kid

could Lassie be pinning away missing Timmy
or those Collie stories I read

I truly hope you didn't end up with an Army dog
easily checked though
all military dogs are tattoed in their ear
can't remember which ear but...yeah

I figure she is just unsure
and wanting to be GOOD so she doesn't have to go back to the kennel

call some rescue folk and ask for a good socializing area near you
some place where she can be a dog
and not worry

Answer 4

She could have been abused, or just raised in a very disciplined environment. Just be really sweet to her, talk to her a lot, give her speical treats and pats and affection and be absolutely trustworthy. You could also try some toys, squeaky ones, or like kongs that you cat stuff a biscuit halfway into or fill with yummy treats. She'll come around, just be patient.

Answer 5

you just have to be patient. she spent 4 years in a strict (maybe not abusive) household. it would be the same as if you spent 28 years (taking dog years into effect) in a strict/abusive home. she just needs to be loved and played with. she is bound to respond, as long as no one raises their voice to her.
it's great to see people adopting animals like her instead of destroying them. good luck, and i hope it helped.

Answer 6

It does sound as though she was abused. You will need to be very patient and understanding. Shower her with attention. Be very loving and patient. Interact with her as much as possible. Just lots of TLC

Answer 7

just love her be good to her in time she will come around.