My new rescue dog is scared. How can I help him adjust to home?

Question

I recently adopted a Collie cross from the shelter were he was born and has been living outside for 4 years. I've had him over a week now and he doesn't seem to be improving. He bolts if someone moves, won't get out the flower beds where he's decided to lay and refuses to come anywhere close to us. He was getting better at one stage but suddenly he's reverted back to what he was when I got him. He won't even come to his bed that is right by the door. What can I do to get him over this? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered

Jessica Desrosiers · Accepted Answer

In situations such as these, time is your friend, as well as patience. 4 years living solely outside is a long time for a dog, and that's a lot of years of work to reverse. You may want to treat Perseus as if he were a puppy, starting with a similar routine for feeding, potty training, etc to get him used to being around people and in/out of a house. Getting him used to you can take time. Always approach by talking calmly and gently and tossing a treat toward him. Not directly facing him and/or crouching down can also make you less intimidating and scary. Let him approach you first rather than you approach him, and be sure to quietly praise or offer treats any time he does. As he gets more used to you, you can then treat only when he allows petting or approaches you and accepts gentle handling. This can take a lot of time, so patience and always maintain a calm presence can help. It is also a good idea to speak with a trainer or behaviorist in your area who can come to the home and offer more tailored advice for how to help Perseus. They can help formulate a training plan as in the case of a behaviorist may also be able to recommend medications to help keep him stress free and relaxed as he learns how to be a dog.

My new rescue dog is scared. How can I help him adjust to home?

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