My female, Joy, was 5 years old when we adopted her. She was timid, shy and even rather nervous. Any time we tried to pick her up, she pulled away from us. She would jump in nervous reaction if we moved too fast towards her. Just when we thought she was comfortable, she would go through more nervous spells. I was convinced she was manic-depressive. It was just her way of transitioning to her new home.
What I did was give her as much love and attention as she would allow me to give. She's really picky with treats and wouldn't accept them at first. If she came to set on my lap, I petted her and told her what a good girl she was. The breeder I adopted her from told me she didn't like being held, but over the last 2 years, she has really become more social and even greets me at the door. She will give me a little lick here and there to tell me she's happy to see me. At night is when she really wants love and attention now. She stands by me or my husband and wants petted or her ears rubbed.
Adopting an adult dog takes time and persistence. It's amazing the little steps they take towards trusting you and becoming comfortable in their new home. |