I just got an 11 month old Jack Russell. She is afraid and timid of everything and everyone. what do i do?

Question

she was kept in pins outside and is not use to being in a house. The breeder claimed that she will get use to us after time, but she is even afraid of her food dish. If I take her outside she tries to run away and will not allow for anyone to touch her. She doesnt bark or bite, but is very afraid of everything. Should I take her back and ask for a refund?

Answer 1

The breeder is full of crap. Your first clue whould have been that she was kept outside - reputable breeders would never have their pups outside - they'd be in the house being socialized. You've got a dog with a bad temperament - with a lot of work you may get her well enought adjusted that she can cope, but you should be aware that dogs like this can very easily turn into fear biters - the most dangerous dogs there are.

With so very many dogs with good temperaments being put to sleep daily because they can't get a home, I would not keep a dog like this. You wanted her for a companion I'm assuming - do you really think she'll ever be one?

Answer 2

That breeder doesn't sound to good. You dog should not be having those type of issues at 11 months. It makes you wonder what type of treatment went on at the breeder.

If you could and aren't attached already -- ask for a refund. Jack Russell's are playful, energetic dogs and the issues you mentioned above may lend itself to deeper problems.

In the meantime -- put her bowl on a mat so it doesn't slide around. My dog upset it's bowl on a raised up frame as a puppy and refused to use it, so I now use the mat and bowls with nonskid bottoms.

The no touching thing is a concern and it could lead to snipping at people.

Answer 3

trust me she just needs time and reassurance. I work at an RSPCA centre and day in day out we get timed dogs come in and sometimes it takes them weeks to get used to the new surroundings, its all new sounds n smells and faces. imagine ud always lived outside then suddenly brought into a house where u have never been! she will be a lovely little dog im sure but she needs alot more time. best thing to do is to get some training books etc n do a bit of research, and also try and keep routines consistent cos dogs like routine, like being walked and fed at roughly the same time every day. bless her, weldone for giving her a lovely new home tho. hope this helps

Answer 4

Return the puppy back to the breeder, and try to get your money back. Then find a more responsible breeder, and try again with a puppy that has a better start in life. The breeder obviously doesn't care about his/her dogs if s/he hasn't spent enough time with them socializing them and just stuck them in a dog pen outside.
If you are already too attached to the pup, then be very patient and gentle with her. Talk to her calmly, and give her her favorite treats every chance you get! But be careful not to overdo the treats either. Try to avoid stressful situations for her. You may want to keep her in one room of the house, and let her get used to that room, then gradually expand the area of the house so she can gradually get used to the whole house.

Answer 5

That depends. If you truly don't feel right with the dog, don't keep it. She'll know, and won't ever adjust right. But if you want to try out first, give her a bit of time. It's a new and strange place for her, and if she's never been anywhere else, she'll need time to adjust. If she won't let you touch her, just sit near her and talk. Maybe even read a book, though it sounds strange. The steady voice and sound could set her more at ease, and she'll be more familiar with it. Try getting closer bit by bit, or each time you do this. And smile when you look at her, but not with your teeth until she's completely comfortable.

Answer 6

Love, attention, treats, cuddling and giving her a secure feeling.

These are great first steps.

The best advice is speak to a professional trainer.

They can help you and your puppy learn socialization tricks, and tricks to boost confidence.

they will also teach basic commands, tricks, potty training tools and other things that will be needed down the road to make life easier for you and your pet.

if you have a petsmart near you, their trainers are very good and experienced, and relatively inexpensive.

it wouldn't be fair to return a puppy to what sounds like a poor living condition unless you can offer no better because you are not connecting with her.

in that case I'd talk to someone about adopting her for you at petfinder.com

Answer 7

ok u need to give her some time the breeder was right just give her a lot of attention..treats...affection and try to give her a chnace 2 let her get used to things if you force the dog it will make it timid that much longer trust me

we had a dog the took about a year, year and a half about to chill..little thimgs would scare her for the longest time
give it some time good luck

Answer 8

I would give her time, it may take awhile. Don't force her to be next to you. My dog was afraid of us when we brought her home from the pound. I would lay on the ground in the same room as her, and let her come to me. It took her a couple of days, but she did come to me. Talk to her in a quit voice, tell her you love her. You could even try holding food in your hand when you are on the ground.

Answer 9

u shouldn't take her back...just give her all the love you can and make her feel as comfortable as possible
I have a Jack Russell and it took her some time 2 get used to us....but Jack Russell are really outgoing and fun

Answer 10

the breeder is correct. just lether be. let her get used to the new envornment. just keep her well fed and nnot raise your voice to her and she will assimilate to you. also try to keep the "busy" down in your home. i mean not so many loud people. good luck.