My Joey is also very submissive, He was my rescue baby, he didnt even see outside untill the day i picked him up
He was 4and 1/2 mths old and never been out side, He will cower with the other dogs and there can be NO yelling what so ever, I just dont see how anyone could be mean to a dog
he will only let you pick him up on his terms, he is so shy and just a beautiful guy, Iam very happy i was there to save him
good luck to you
hope it gets better.