We have adopted a Blue Heeler Mix from the local humane society. She was picked up with her sister when they were about 3 months old and she spent 2 months at the kennel.She is approximately 6 months old and has adapted to me very well. My boyfriend, on the other hand, she has not taken to. She growls, barks and runs from him but has not attempted to bite him, luckily. We have been trying to figure out what makes her go so crazy. She doesn't like men's boots or anything black leather. If he has anything in his hand she gets all worked up and cowers to the point where she urinates where ever she is. We have come to the assumption that she was in a home where someone has abused her by kicking or striking her. We have tried the dominant owner role, treats and him just plain old ignoring her but nothing seems to bring her around. Does anyone have some helpful suggestions? She has bonded with me so much but the tension with her and my boyfriend is starting to cause problems.

She's protecting her territory, you.

Are you asserting yourself as leader or coddling her whenever she seems scared of your boyfriend?

What are your actions when she growls at him, do you tell her to stop, put her in a submissive position and let her know it isn't acceptable, or do you hug her, tell her it's okay, give her comfort?

If you're doing the latter of the two then you're training her to be afraid of your boyfriend.

Try the Cesar Millan method, it works. He has many great books out on dog training. You can also Google and find many clips of dogs he's helped.

Good luck.