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misty78702 · May 31, 2006, 07:50 PM

We just got a 4 1/2 month old pit bull mix. She is as sweet as can be but only likes me and is very lazy. She does not warm up to anyone else. We have taken her around other dogs and she does well with them, but does not trust people.she growls at my husband every time he comes home. She is not very puppy like, doesn't like to play very much and keeps to herself.she has a crate which is left open at all times that we are here and she mostly stays in there. She goes to my office with me everyday and growls and barks at everyone that walks in. any suggestions to make her more trusting and happy.
Thanks

valinors_sorrow · Jun 1, 2006, 06:24 PM

First of all, 41/2 months of history could be a factor. Do you know much of her past?

Second, all dogs want to be in a dog pack, and want to know where in the hierarchy they are. It is paramount to their security. If you want to make a dog neurotic, mess with that. My husband is alpha dog, I come second and our dog is third. We consistently behave like that around her. If our dog, as a puppy, had tried to "outrank" me, my husband would have nipped that in the bud. It sounds to me like you are letting this puppy get the upper hand so she is alpha dog, guarding you from everyone else. You need to establish a workable hierarchy. If you feel lost - look over dog traning books. Best to get going soon since your puppy is older now.

Also puppies really are geared to eat, sleep, play/exercise and poop and if that doesn't get on some sort of routine, its very disconcerting to the puppy too. Listlessness can be a schedule that is way out of whack or something more serious - when is the last time she was at the vet?

Thanks for posting and good luck.

misty78702 · Jun 1, 2006, 06:30 PM

I took her to the vet last week and she told me to just get anyone and everyone to be affectionate toward her.I think she may have been beaten.she was better today.thank you for your advice

valinors_sorrow · Jun 1, 2006, 06:38 PM

Well good to know it isn't a worm problem, so sorry to hear it may be her sad past. Be extra consistent with her. Have strangers approach her slowly with hands low and open, palm up, letting her sniff first. Reward with her favourite treats whenever she overcomes some small fear. When she appears more confident around you both, you two play with each other on the floor like two puppies would, and if she joins in reward her! Include as part of that play, each of you taking turns rolling her over on her back and holding her there for a moment - this will establish your dominance over her. You are her dog pack now!

Thanks and keep us posted.