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Debbie writes:

"Ok, here is my story. I found my dog off the Internet. A website called "HeartBandits" for American Eskimos, which by the way is where I purchased your book. [To read about the book she's talking about, go to: http://www.dogproblems.com/secretsbook.htm]

Anyway, the lady that rescued her said that she might have been abused and that she was shy of men but loved women and children. When I get her home, I find out she loves my husband, adores my daughter, but will have nothing to do with me! At first she growled, but I stood up to her and she stopped, but she runs off to my husband or daughter whenever I come around. When I have her on a leash, it is a whole different story.

She will do whatever I tell her to do, but she acts like she is still afraid of me. Is there some advice you can give me on how to bond? I have tried the things that you have suggested in the book. I have held my posture correctly and have used high pitch tones when calling her to me, but she will not come. Not even for a treat. When I pet her and rub on her she just sits there with her ears down like she hates being touched (by me). Please help!

Deborah

Dear Deborah,

Thanks for the question.

There is a simple answer to your question: Time and training.

The more time you spend with your dog, the more she will bond with you. And the more time you spend TRAINING obedience exercises with your dog, the more you will develop a proper relationship with your new pet. This will also work to speed the bonding process.

When I owned South Bay K-9 Academy for six years, it was very common to work with a dog for a few minutes and then have it respond as if the dog HAD BEEN MINE for years, when in fact the owners had been with the dog for several months.

It's been my experience that most new dogs will take roughly 3' weeks to bond with a new owner. Be patient.

The more time and training you invest in your dog, the more your dog will bond to you and love you.

That's all for now, folks!
Adam