Re: [pyrnet] New and learning...

[clhenke@juno.com]

Hi Neema ( is this a welcome too? ).  I'm kind of curious as to why it
has taken so long to get her out socializing?   Was she out and about
when she was younger, and is this occurring now, or is this the first
time she is having to deal with new things?

Because of their history they can be somewhat reserved and stand- offish.
 All of mine are outgoing to a fault, although one of my males still does
not like to travel by vehicle.  A sister to four of mine, will bark a
warning, but will come no where near people.  Same litter, different up 
bringing.  

It is going to be harder because of her size, but you need to push the
issue with her before it gets any later.  Take her to public places.  Let
her know she is doing fine, but do not baby her.  She will attract people
and children ( Pyrs. do that by their very existence :-), so that part is
easy ), explain that she has not been exposed much, that she needs
attention, but that it needs to be calm and quiet and not pushy.  A lot
of people will be very kind and helpful when this is explained.  Take a
lawn chair, sit in a parking lot, or a park, whatever.  Be firm with her,
but kind and soothing, just don't baby her or reward her for trying to
hide.  If you can get a child to sit near, but not touch her, even acting
a bit disinterested, then praise her if she becomes nosey enough to reach
out.

Have you taken her to obedience classes?  This is often a good
opportunity, with professional help, and other people, dogs, and
experiences.  As she learns, it builds her confidence.  Look for a good
positive instructor, no hard handling, she needs to be built up, not
intimidated.

Has she had a good checkup, just to be sure there is no under lying
problems causing her discomfort socially?

Your going to need to get her out and push the issue though if you want
her to be fully functional.  Once you get past  this, she will be happier
too.  What is she like when people come to your door, does she hide, or
meet them?

Good luck with your girl, credit to you for wanting to have her be more
social, rather than just having her on the sidelines!  :-)  Cindy

Cindy Henke
clhenke@juno.com
Ennis, Texas

"All knowledge, the totality of all questions and answers, is contained
in the dog."  ~ Franz Kafka

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