I think it depends. I found Jackson in a classifieds ad online, she claimed her female dog got pregnant by accident... I honestly don't know if this is true. But there were 2 males left when I got there and both seemed a little scared when being handled by the new people. I know that if I had gotten him from a good breeder, the pups should have been more playful and outgoing. But Jackson was never really timid around us family... the first day we brought him home, he fit himself right in. He slept alot the first 2 days but that's just being a pup I suppose.
He's over 1 year old now and does not really willingly let a stranger pet him. He's fine around strangers in a sense that if they just walk by and leave him alone, he could care less, but the minute they go to pet him, he ducks away. Once he meets you 2 or 3 times, he will love you forever. It's just that first initial meeting with a stranger that he's iffy. My aunt for example... Jackson sees her MAYBE once a month, sometimes even longer, but everytime she comes over, he greets her with kisses and jumps on her etc.
Sorry this is so winded but I'm just saying he was shy when I first got him, and I think he will remain somewhat reserved for the rest of his life. But I think with great socialization, they can somewhat overcome it. Jackson's getting better because I carry treats with me and if a stranger is in our house, I ask them if they can give him a treat. He's been going up to people by himself and sniffing them now which is something he never did. He even let a few kids pet him and do tricks with him.
But I think the basic personality they have as a puppy will stick with them forever. |