Danica and her husband Sam decided to adopt Justin, a 2 year old gold and white Shih Tzu that had been turned over to a shelter. Danica and Sam could see Justin's inner attractiveness at first discern and they knew in their hearts that he was the right dog for them.
It was positive from the start that Justin would need to be taught some basic commands, he did not seem to understand the idea of housetraining nor did he come when he was called. Additionally, it soon became apparent that Justin did not know how to play or interact well with his dog parents or anything else. Thought about to make this adoption a success, Danica and Sam immediately began working with Justin on a daily basis. They sat aside time each day to play with him and to teach him some basic commands. Danica and Sam used positive reinforcement that included treats and lots of love and praise.
Shitzu Dogs
After only a few weeks things were going much better, Justin was becoming a real family member. Justin was doing well with his training and he seemed to like everybody now. That is, until Sam's brother Joe came for a visit, it was apparent that Justin was not comfortable with him.
Justin hid behind the couch when Joe walked in and had to be coaxed out by Danica to eat. Danica called her friend that happened to be an animal behavior consultant. Her friend said that Joe apparently reminded the Shih Tzu of man from his past that was abusive in some way. Danica's friend asked if Joe would be willing to work at easing the dog's discomfort. Joe agreed wholeheartedly and began working with Justin as the animal behaviorist suggested.
To start, Joe attempted to give the dog treats. He also made a real endeavor to keep his voice even and friendly. Danica and Sam really made a point of allowing the dog see them interact with Joe. This was an endeavor to allow their pet see that Joe was approved by his dog parents which would indicate that he must be safe.
The first day did not go so well, Justin prolonged avoiding Joe and the treats he offered. But the next morning Joe offered the dog his left-over eggs. Joe sat his plate on the floor next to him and within a moment or two Justin came over and ate the eggs. The dog then sat next to Joe waiting for more. Well, that was the beginning of a friendship for the two of them.
Because Justin's fears were acknowledged, and his dog parents, as well as Joe, took the time to work with him, he is now a well-adjusted family pet. Many times dogs have an abusive past that has an impact on their behavior for years to come. When adopting an older pet the new owner may observation 'quirky' personality traits that should be addressed. Given adequate time, patience and comprehension most of these issues can be resolved, and the supervene is a loyal and loving pet. The key to helping any dog that has a history of abuse is patience, time, and understanding. If you observation strange behaviors in your pet you should talk with your vet and other professionals about potential causes. Sometimes pro help is not required, instead, tasteless sense can lead the way to helping your pet. anything you do, don't give up, expect the process to take a microscopic time and endeavor and know that in the end it will all be worthwhile.
Adult Shih Tzus Can Come With a History