Can someone help me please? My shelties doesn"t like my son:(

[corbinam]

Is it possible for your son to help with some of the positive things that Jack likes? Like, does Jack enjoy walks? If so, maybe you and your son could both take him. And then once Jack is more comfortable (especially if you make a habit of it--like go every day at the same time), then Jack and your son can go alone.

Same thing goes for breakfast, or dinner, or maybe a special bone/high value treat at a certain time. Habit really helps a stressed dog.

Good luck!

[Chris]

This may sound nuts, but you might consider a session with an animal communicator. I worked with Marta Willliams (www.martawilliams.com), and the session very successful. We learned about what our male Sheltie, Beckon, was feeling and what he wanted. Now all is happy among three humans and five dogs. I highly recommend it. $75 for peace of mind.

I know some folks think this is hooey. So did I -- until it worked for my friend and, then, for me. Just sayin...

[dblock]

My Beau was extremely shy around my male friends when I first brought him home, I bought specific treats they(male visitors) gave him, I would have them drop them and then ignore him. He eventually did come around. Now, he gives anyone and everyone attention, who will rub his butt. Hopefully, the same will happen for you and your dog.

[OntarioSheltie]

Originally Posted by SheepOfBlue

No need to 'break' of crate training, my guys stay with me but use crates at flyball or if they go to mom and dad's. so it is a nice option that he is fine with it.

Not sure what you have tried so sorry if this a repeat. Most Shelties LOVE food. So have your son leak treats Kind of ignore jack but casually drop a treat. Ignore him when he gets the food. But get up and drop another as he walks. That way jack does not have to get close but starts associating him with tasty stuff. If it works gradually decrease the move off then increase attention. I bet jack will come around.

I would also want to know why he pants a lot as that not normal

Good luck.

When you son 'leaks treats,' make sure it is something REALLY high value. I use something like this - my guys go absolutely nuts for this type of treat. Its great because you can slice it into thin disks then freeze what you won't use right away. Your son can break small pieces off of each disk or break off a bunch of pieces and drop them all at once.

http://www.naturalbalanceinc.com/pro...?ProductId=53&..

Originally Posted by geewiz

Also, the panting was obvious to me when I brought him home. He would "mill around" my bedroom and not know what to do. After about a week of this and no sleep I called the breeder and asked about the crate. I started to put Jack in the crate (I bought one) for a couple months until he got used to his new home. Then I slowly removed the crate and put the crate in the family room. He now sleeps with me:) Which is what I wanted.

When your son comes around it obviously causes Jack stress all over again. You might want to consider bringing out the crate again for him when your son is around, since in the past it was a safe place to hide. Put the crate in a central area where your family spends a lot of time, like your living room and leave the door open so he can come and go as he pleases. Having a crate to hide in along with your son ignoring him except to leak treats on the floor might help Jack to feel confident enough to interact with your son. Right now it sounds like he's just too overwhelmed with anxiety when your son is around to get past his fear.

Its also important that your son completely ignore Jack. He shouldn't even make eye contact, he should pretend like Jack isn't even in the room, except to drop treats when he walks around. Looking at Jack or trying to coax Jack to come near can put too much pressure on him and cause him to shut down when he's in such a highly anxious state.

Your poor son, it must be very discouraging for him. Just remind him that its nothing personal, Jack is just highly sensitive, as shelties can be some times. It can be easy to forget this and become frustrated and discouraged when a dog runs in terror every time you enter a room.

[geewiz]

Again, Thank you ALL for the replies and advice:)

I am willing to try all.

Chris:

I don't think this is "nuts"...I have considered a dog physic in my area. At this point, my son (Lukas) just "wants to know" what the problem is.

I am not quite sure who I feel sorry for more, Jack or Lukas All I know is that everyone with a family pet wants peace and harmony.

I have read everyone replies and am grateful to all!

I will keep everyone updated on my situation and please keep ideas and advice coming! Truly glad I found this forum:)

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Julie