Extremely Shy Puppy

[Toffee's Mom]

Jessica - Smudge did really well around those kids, you should be proud of him. For a pup of that age, with all the health problems he had, he is doing really well with his confidence. A little hesitant but that's probably the safe way to be anyway around kids. It will be great when he gets to training, such a shame he missed out when he was unwell. Interacting with other dogs outside the pack is actually not that natural for dogs. And yes, Bullet snapping at him probably did have a big impact.

I completely agree with Caro, he did actually well around the kids, there was A LOT going on and he was more watchful than terrified... his body language is shy but not shut down, etc... Treats are what I use for strangers, AND I keep telling people to just ignore him, do not talk to him, do not stare at him, do not touch him, til later... because he WILL come to you and voila he will be fine after 10 minutes of people ignoring him... he ends up sitting on their feet to get petted and makes the rounds at any party/gathering we have ever been to, lol
of course I understand that isn't easy with kids around, lol

Is this your first Sheltie, too? I was surprised at how Toffee was so much more watchful of strangers and different things than any other dog I had... lol I also go to the dogpark almost daily, so he can interact with other dogs.. he's a bit of a snapper, but I stay on top of it,it's mostly excitable big breeds puppies he wants to teach lessons to.. lol but I super praise when he plays nicely Lots of fun things to do at the dogpark, etc... Hope you have one in your area