Re: MY JR IS AFRAID OF MY BOYFRIEND

In Reply to: MY JR IS AFRAID OF MY BOYFRIEND
Category:   Aggression
Posted by:  TAMMY BALFANZ
Posted on:  September 25, 2002 at 12:40:55

: My JR was rescued and had a broken jaw, he is fine now but he is afraid of my boyfriend. he screams when he touches him, he does not bite. my boyfriend has never laid a hand on him to hurt him. He has tried feeding him, bathing, everything I can think of to let them trust eachother. also, he is only afraid of him when he stands up.. when my bf sits down he plays with him and licks him.

Response:

Dear Tammy,

Ahhh...poor little guy! Glad to hear he has recovered and many thanks for adopting a rescued dog.

When a rescued dog exhibits fear toward a person who has never caused it harm, it is assumed that the dog has previously suffered at the hands (or feet) of a person of the same sex. It is very important that your boyfriend understand that your terrier's behavior toward him is NOT personal.

I absolutely understand how frustrated you both must be feeling but a dog who was likely abused does not trust easily or quickly. You're doing a great job with the feeding/bathing ideas...keep it up. Regarding when your boyfriend stands up: I suggest he may want to try "announcing" that he's going to stand up in a quiet, calm voice and then move very slowly.

Thank you both again for taking in a needy JRT; please give him a big hug from all of us!