This is how Lomas is with the staff and people he trusts. He will practically crawl into your lap and insists upon lots of belly rubs. He also gives GREAT hugs! He is SO happy to see us, and he wants all of the lovins. He is the epitome of a velcro dog with us! He is also very good on a leash and listens very well.
With new people on the other hand, we sometimes have to walk with him out the door, where he will slowly amble across the parking lot and often is quick to want to come back. As he approaches the shelter he might start to pull as well. We have some tips for walking Lomas and some of our other shy kids!
DO
LISTEN TO THE STAFF!!! We know our dogs are will give you tips and tricks specific to each dog. We do this to make your life easier and to avoid stressing our dogs.
TAKE IT SLOW! Remember, we don’t always know what these dogs have been through before coming to the shelter or how much they were socialized as puppies. People are quick to question if they were abused, but some dogs are naturally timid or just weren’t socialized around new people, animals, or situations. This is why socializing is ESSENTIAL with puppies!
Just take the leash and start walking. Some aren’t polite in the human way wanting to be introduced. They’re dogs. They are ready to get out and stretch their legs. There will be plenty of time later for pets.
Take treats (if the dog is allowed to have them). Lomas loves treats! Even when he is nervous about someone, he will often take treats from them.
Let him (or whatever dog it is) come to you. If Lomas wants some pets, he will absolutely let you know.
Speak softly. Loud noises are scary, especially when you’re already a nervous dog.
Stay positive! Tell them that they are a good boy/girl even if they are nervous. While dogs don’t understand English, they do understand when you are trying to be kind and happy, and they will pick up on that.
Watch their body language. If a dog is acting unsure about you, again, let them come to you. If they are too stressed, just bring them back to the shelter. Do not force them to go for a walk with you.
DON’T
Get down on his level. Many people think this makes them more comfortable, but think about it this way: if someone you just met bends down and gets right by your face, would you be comfortable?
DON’T
Put your hand in his face. Dogs have good sniffers. You don’t have to hold your hand out for them to smell you.
DON’T
Crowd him. He is unsure of people and having too many people coming towards him at once or crowding around him will only scare him (or any other fearful dog)
DON’T
Let them approach other people/let other people approach them. If someone is interested in a shelter dog, encourage them to visit the shelter. You can simply say to them stop! This is a nervous dog, please do not approach. Then tell them to talk to shelter staff who are happy to give them information about the dog, adoption, etc.
Again, do not force them to go for a walk with you. We will not be upset if you bring them back because they are too nervous, don’t want to walk, or you aren’t comfortable.