My rescue dog is scared of my daughter. How can I help him adjust?

Question

We adopted a rescue pup from a shelter. He is a Chinese crested powderpuff. We were told he came from a breeder. In helping him to adjust to the first home he has ever lived in we're pretty sure he came from a puppy mill or similar environment. Bambi has been with us for over two months and we love him to pieces. He is still very fearful. He is very bonded with me and has made progress with my husband and our 2 cats. He is very fearful of our daughter. Any ideas on how to help him? Irene. Pet's info: Dog | Chinese Crested Powder Puff | Male | neutered | 12 lbs

Angel Alvarado, LVT · Accepted Answer

Use a pheromone product such as the Adaptil collar or DAP plug in diffuser. Either may decrease any anxiety. If your daughter is old enough, have her feed Bambi and offer treats and toys to him. She can play or interact with him for very short periods of time initially. This time can be increased as he acclimates. Always use praise and reward as he progresses. Be patient and be consistent. Do not force him to play or interact. If your daughter is an infant, show her to Bambi for ever increasing periods of time. If she is crying or moving, go slow as this could be scary to him, especially if he's never seen a baby.

My rescue dog is scared of my daughter. How can I help him adjust?

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