Hi Cynthia, we can kind of relate to your problem your having with Gizmo. When we brought Kiki home last year she was very timid and feared most dogs that came her way. She would backup the minute she would see one and kind of flatten out on the ground (I think she thought she was hiding) but over time and continuing to bring her for walks and meeting other dogs, she is not as fearful now and most of the time will sniff other dogs and try to join in to play with them. When she sees a dog and sniffs and plays I immediately say to her "good Kiki" and then she looks at me waiting for her treat. She understands now when she is good with dogs, she gets a treat.
She does know which dogs are nice and which are a little too rough with her though. It is so funny, when she sees one of the larger, rough dogs, she rolls over on her back and just lies there on the street. It is really cute. But she knows what she can handle I guess.
I am sure in time, Gizmo won't be as fearful.
Anna
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