I got a puppy almost half a year ago... I don't think she likes me or my husband or staying inside. All she wants is to stay outside...doesn't like being inside (she's a Maltese). She doesn't come to us. She still doesn't trust us. She doesn't follow. She's totally the opposite of our other maltese. She doesn't wag her tail when she sees us. It's like she's not our dog.
What should I do with her?
I've been giving her more attention than my other dog...just to warm up to her. And it's not working. She's starting to frustrate me. As a pet owner, how would you like it if you dog doesn't want you? My husband is starting to think that she's retarded (in his word, the previous owner didn't teach her to be sociable...). I have had a few dogs before her, and they never behave like her... and NO, I don't beat and yell at them. I do have a small fear that she'll bite me (maybe unconsciously, because she plays more rough and more aggressive over food than my other dog).
2007-10-06 10:37:42 · 11 answers · asked by Busy Bee 2 in Pets ➔ Dogs
You may have a dog raised in a puppy mill. If you're not enjoying her presence in your home, and you don't think she's attached to you, maybe someone else can connect with her. Or, you could find a pet psychologist and visit with her. Maybe she could help with certain exercises that would build trust...
It's not doing anyone any good to have a dog you don't really want who won't make the effort to connect with you. Unless you find that she's just a brick short of a load--she may be autistic. That sounds about right.
TX Mom
2007-10-06 10:47:11 · answer #1 · answered by TX Mom 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Like people, all dogs are different. Just because she's the same breed as your other dog, doesn't mean she'll react the same way. Her personality and temperament is different, and a lot of that is due to genetics. I'm not sure how old she was when you got her, sometimes when you take in an older pup/dog it takes longer for them to warm up to you. Of course, 6 months is generally long enough though!
It's likely that she learned how to react and behave from her mom, especially if she was with her for a reasonable amount of time. If her mom was reserved, nervous, fearful or very reserved that may be why your dog reacts this way.
I would make sure that she has no physical/phsychological problems that account for her behavior - your vet can give her a thorough check-up and if no physical problems are found he may even refer you to a dog behavioral specialist.
The fact that you're even a little afraid that she might bite you and that she seems to be aggressive with her food (known as food guarding) suggests that she doesn't respect her humans as the alphas - those in charge. You need to address that issue I think.
Although your pup is obviously not the touchy-feely kind, she still relies on you for everything and needs affection/exercise/human and dog interaction just like any other pup. I'd recommend a dog obedience class which would help her to learn to focus on you and your husband. It would also emphasise that you guys are the 'alphas' in her pack and that she depends on you. The social dog-to-dog interaction she'll get at a dog class is also very good for her.
Sometimes female dogs can be more independent and aloof than males, especially if they're not spayed and the male is neutered. But this isn't always the case, each dog is an individual.
Try to build a regular playtime for your pup with you/your husband - every day. Use lots of positive reinforcement and treats and praise whenever she focuses on you or obeys a command. SOmetimes a game of 'fetch' or tug-of-war is more attractive than a lesson, and can get a more favorable response.
Hope this helps some, best of luck!
2007-10-06 17:56:57 · answer #2 · answered by suzy49 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Dogs don't have a lot of chemistry with weak owners. She doesn't respect you or your authority and you have a lot of work to do within yourself to change the attitude that the dog runs the house and you have no control. There should be absolutely no fear of your pet biting you. When there is that fear, something is significantly out of order.
The clue for this is in your statement about food aggression. She demands food, despite the fact that you buy it, pay for the house, all that stuff. She doesn't care what's in your wallet or your good intentions. Since you're not the pack leader of the household, she's taken on that role and is now bossing you around.
I strongly suggest that you either begin watching or reading some of Ceasar Millan's books. Many dog people don't like his methods, but he does get results and there is a real danger of someone getting hurt in your home if you do nothing to correct this behavior ASAP.
Source - Ceasar Millan
2007-10-06 18:01:36 · answer #3 · answered by Leslie L 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There is a program called nothing in life for free. She needs to figure out all good things come from you. Feed her by hand, have her work for her breakfast and dinner, sit, down, etc. If she isn't with you than she should be in an expen or crate. She needs to look to you for everything. Also, limit the amount of time she is allowed to be with your other dog. It may take a while, but she should come around. A good obedience class is also helpful!
2007-10-06 18:34:14 · answer #4 · answered by sclmarm 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
my fiance and i adopted our girl papillon from a papillon rescue. she was a puppy mill girl and for several months after we brought her home. she wanted NOTHING to do with us. i felt like she was going to pack her bags and run away.
it took several months, but we just kept her on a routine, gave her as much love as she would tolerate and only had 1 rule with her. if she was going to be unsociable, she had to at least be in the same room with us. now, she cant wait to give us kisses and be on the couch with us or in the bed.
our home is also a quiet place, no kids and no loud noises. i think that has a lot to do with it as well. dogs love routines and seem to do better when they have one. just keep working with her. i also think that they learn things from their siblings. the more she sees you interact with your other maltese, the more she will start to get it and warm up to you. dont push the issue with her, let her do it at her own pace. try not to "make" her be your friend.
as far as the possible food aggression, try teaching her commands such as wait, nice, and leave it. this has worked well for our big dog as she would take off your hand if you tried to give her a treat or take anything from her. if all else fails, you might need to consult with a behaviorist.
2007-10-06 17:54:17 · answer #5 · answered by bob © 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It could be an abusive past.. which is odd, since she is a puppy.. I take it you got her from the shelter then.
But I do understand what your saying, Id be pretty upset too if my dog behaved like that. Sounds like she needs socializing, and a lot of it.
2007-10-06 17:48:11 · answer #6 · answered by B. 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Can she see? Is there anyway possible she's blind. She may just be extremely independent. I have a Carin that is extremely argumentative. I never had one like that before. It's just the personality. If your not sure take her to the vet see if she has any physical problems.
2007-10-06 17:47:20 · answer #7 · answered by Kim S 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Register for some good obedience classes.
Maybe in the past she was abused or hit before you bought her.
2007-10-06 17:41:53 · answer #8 · answered by Silver Moon 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Spend more time with her. Keep her favorite dog treats with her. Get her things. Spoil her.
2007-10-06 17:54:49 · answer #9 · answered by ♥reallyrina♥ ♥roxychick♥ 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Maybe your dog is unsure what to do or has been abused in the past.
2007-10-06 17:40:56 · answer #10 · answered by cats 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋