Traumatized Dog?

Question

I have a miniture huskey that I got from a friend of mine a week ago. He is 2 and a half years old. At a couple of months old he had got worms, at 1 he was badly attacked and bitten by a cyote and almost died. A couple of months ago my friend left him in the care of his other friends who didn't take care of this poor guy, friends friend stepped on his paw and ended up breaking it. He got out of the cast about two weeks ago
He is traumatized. Even when my friend had him he wasn't ever given much love or taken care of. He was never taken for walks, bathed, pretty much anything.

This little guy is a sweetheart and it breaks my heart. He is afraid of people, he doesnt bark unless he sees another dog, he doesn't play with any toys, he runs away from most people, he doesn't whine, he won't eat in front of people, he didnt complain when i gave him a bath, he gets scared at the slightest noise.
The only time he gets happy is when I take him for walks. any idea on how to help him?

Answer 1

I'm so very sorry for you, I dont know where to begin to help heal your dog. in all honesty my friend, you have too much on your plate and id definitely invest in hiring a dog behaviourist or advanced trainer that can help you 2 bond and bring your dog out of its shell...hang in there!

Answer 2

Rehabilitation takes time. The dog did not get traumatized overnight so it's wounds will not heal overnight. An ounce of hurt requires two ounces of TLC. Be patient and gentle with your dog. Give it attention, exercise, and toys to play with. Talk to the dog, even if it's just about your day. When the dog shows happy behavior, praise it. You must also be authoritive. Dogs feel more secure if they have a confident master. Being the boss does not mean you can't love on the dog but it does mean you must set boundaries and properly discipline using positive reinforcement. To socialize him with people have him on a leash and take him where people are. Give some people treats to give to the dog and have the each approach the dog and give him a treat. If you know the person and your dog walks okay on a leash have that person walk your dog for a bit since he likes walks.

Answer 3

Keep taking him for walks. And do it right (like Cesar Milan describes in his book Cesar's Way). Use a short leash (about 3 feet at most) and keep the dog at your side at all times. Vary where you take the dog. When on walks, introduce the dog to new experiences (I have a Petco about a mile from my house and take the dogs there - they were afraid at first, but love walking down a busy street now).

Eventually, the dog will get used to new experiences and will trust other people. Also, keep in mind that a dog needs 50% exercise, 30% discipline, and 20% affection. Teach the dog to respond to commands. Don't coddle the dog when it won't try to learn or to respond to commands. Save your praise - and food - for the dog until after the dog has been properly walked.

Psychological trauma is difficult to deprogram in a dog. But, it can be done with patience and determination. Good luck.

Answer 4

Bring a collar and leash. Leave 20 minutes early tomorrow, drive around the neighborhood and look for a park or vacant lot nearby before you go to meet the dog. After all the introductions and qualifications ask if you can take the dog for a walk. Head out to the open space you have identified, just you and the dog. Spend 20 minutes alone with the dog, you will know if the two of you have bonded or if this is not the dog for you.

Answer 5

Just love and time hon. You will be pleased to see how he comes out of himself.

I got a 4 year old "championship" Pom who had lived in a basement kennel all her life. Definitely love starved and even now years later she is still one little cuddle sponge and licking machine.

She never has played with toys or balls or anything, although she can chase a mouse down in a flash. Diving right past the cat who brought it in.

I think you have a wonderful rewarding experience ahead of you. Gentleness, patience and understanding. You will be fine and so will the delightful spirit who has come to live with you.

Answer 6

I have two rescue dogs who were previously abused. One was abused so viciously she lost a leg. If you are a compassionate, patient dog owner your dog will, over time, respond to the positive world you provide for him. He just needs to be in a safe environment. Walk him all the time if he likes it. Slowly introduce him to other people in your life, and do it in a controlled environment. If he continually has positive experiences, he will come out of his shell.

Answer 7

Baby steps. It's going to take a lot of patience. He doesn't trust people and who can blame him. Poor little guy. Just show him lots of love, comfort him when he's scared and show him that you can be trusted. Food/treats are a great way to start building trust. Good luck, it's going to take a lot of patience and you're really going to have to boost his little ego.