SOCIALIZING SHY AND NEGLECTED HOUNDS

Unsocialized, neglected, and frightened hounds may be the most challenging to adopt. They require specialized care and training in order to become treasured lifelong companions.

Some of these hounds may never have been outside a cage or in a house. They may never have experienced kindness and therefore fear humans. They are at high risk for flight due to fear, and destructiveness if they feel panicked.

Constant monitoring is required. These dogs need time and patience to transition into a loving home.
 

Bringing Your Shy Hound Home

Shy/unsocialized hounds are best kept housed in an area of the home separated from your other companion animals, but not from the day-to-day activities of the household. A crate for your hound will provide a safe place while allowing him/her to be in an area with lots of activity.

Be very careful when introducing new people or animals. Well-intentioned interactions may overwhelm an under-socialized or neglected dog. It is hard to know how they will react in a home situation, so use caution. Even frightened dogs respond with “fight or flight.”

A slow approach is essential. Always be positive. Use soft voices and lots of yummy treats to associate new people and animals with positive rewards.
 

Interaction with Your Hound 

The best care you can give these dogs is to put as few demands on them as possible. Our first instinct is to nurture and comfort them, but loving attention, although well-meaning, is the last thing these dogs need. Instead, look for ways to be in their presence without pressuring them to interact.

  • Place the crate in a room where you can sit and read. Let the hound get comfortable with your presence. Don't talk to the dog or make direct eye contact.
  • As time passes, gently place some scrumptious treats on the floor. At first the dog may not even leave the crate. Be patient!
  • When the hound takes the treats, place more treats closer to you and speak to the dog in a low, calm voice.
  • Briefly make eye contact and add more normal human behavior to these interactions as the dog becomes more comfortable.

Patience is key—do not be discouraged by slow progress.
 

General Handling of Your Shy Hound 

Once the dog is used to you, your responsibilities will expand to include:

  • Stroking under the chin
  • Brushing
  • Lifting paws
  • Checking ears, mouth, and eyes

Remember that “baby steps” are key! Basic training can be introduced at this time. Begin housetraining and teach "sit," "stay," "come," and leash walking. Introduce hounds to new people, places and animals as appropriate.


Do’s and Don’ts for Shy Dogs

You may download a list of helpful Do's and Don'ts of Shy & Unsocialized Dogs, used by permission of For Pet's Sake Dog Training.


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