My new dog barks aggressively at people. Is she scared or possessive?

Question

Maggie is new to our family. She has been completely drawn to me since day one and is shy around anyone else - she doesn't let you touch her right away. But the main problem is that she barks aggressively at people or animals all the time. She is scared of them if they're looking at her and won't make a peep but as soon as you walk away, she runs, barks and nips (but never bites) at you and scares most people. I'm wondering is she's fearful, possessive, etc. She did it with her old owners too. Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | spayed | 1 year and 4 months old

Angel Alvarado, LVT · Accepted Answer

It could be a combination of being fearful/anxious and a bit possessive/protective. Try not to overwhelm her with too many people at once. Gradually acclimate her to one person at a time by exposing her for ever increasing periods of time. Correct any negative response immediately and praise good behavior consistently. Add in a new person as she accepts the previous one. Be patient. This will take time. A pheromone product, such as the Adaptil collar or DAP plug in diffuser, may decrease any anxiety she may have.

My new dog barks aggressively at people. Is she scared or possessive?

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