Hello & a question ....

[Dcmom2]

Hello! I'm so glad I found this forum! I am huge fan of shelties! I had one growing up and also have a blue Merle sheltie now. I also recently adopted a 6 year old retired show dog/mama of two litters. She is the sweetest little thing in the world - but so unlike the shelties I've had in the past. I've never adopted an older dog. She is so quiet and seems so confused, which I'm sure is to be expected. She's been home a week. She'll come when she's called and will relax when sitting with me in a chair or laying in bed with me. But otherwise, it seems like she just cannot settle down - she paces unless she is sitting with me. She barely eats (mind you, she is only about 16 pounds), doesn't seem to drink much, doesn't play, doesn't engage with my family or our other dogs. I know the Breeder/handler personally and know without a doubt that she loves her dogs -- but something just seems to be missing. I guess I'm just looking for advice or reassurance that this is normal in this particular situation .... I'm worried she isn't happy and that breaks my heart!

 

[Chris]

It often takes a retired show dog a while to settle in, especially if they weren't also"house dogs." My friends have a retired show Collie, and she took about six weeks to consider their house her home. She was distant for a bit longer, but now she loves her family. Just think about how she may have lived before -- the excitement/stress of travel and showing; the kennel life; being one of many. Give her time, and she'll blossom in a whole new way.

By the way, are you in Washington D.C.? I'm in Northern VA.

 

[ghggp]

Welcome and congrats on your new Sheltie!

I have to say, I had the exact same experience recently! I hoped she would eventually calm down and adjust to my two other Shelties and myself. Alas, I had to return her as she would not bond at all and seemed very unhappy! I was in constant contact with the breeder and we both agreed that sending her back was best for all involved.
I have rescued many Shelties over the years and never needed to return one!
Good luck and I hope for the best in your case! Make sure you seek advice from the breeder! They have insights into the dog and can best advise you!

 

[Ann]

What you're describing is perfectly normal and should resolve itself in time with patience and love. Many breeder/retired show dogs aren't also house dogs and live in kennel buildings or, at least, in crates. I've had several and I know that when you bring them home and release them into a house -- which seems like it should be heaven after crate life -- what you have is a dog who is uncertain and nervous. The reason is that everything is new to them, and they don't know how to behave. Pacing is absolutely normal and may take a few weeks to a month to stop. Give your girl lots of love, treats and one-on-one time, and above all, give her a crate for her den. That way, when she's overwhelmed she will have a familiar environment to retreat to. It's a good idea to crate her when you leave the house, and even overnight at the beginning. You will know when she's ready for complete freedom. In my experience it can take up to six months.

Above all, please be patient and don't give up on her! These dogs DO come around and when they do, they are the most loving, happy creatures you'll ever share your life with.

 

[Hanne]

She'll come when she's called and will relax when sitting with me in a chair or laying in bed with me. But otherwise, it seems like she just cannot settle down - she paces unless she is sitting with me.

First welcome to you Dcmom2 - and ??

I see it as a statement of trust to you, you are her point of reference

It is clear that such a sensitive breed that has not experienced the world will be very uncertain.

Personally, I think she will be a wonderful dog - if she is allowed to expand her world quietly with you as her support.

Remember that 6 years of missing experiences, not even arranged in no time
- please help and support her

Can see Ann come before me - and she absolutely has a lot of experience

 

[Daisy1015]

I agree with all of the above.

Even if a house pet, she aould grieve her former owner and be confused. It's part of what we love about the breed, the deep bond.

 

[Dcmom2]

Thank you all for your responses! As I'm writing this, my little princess has settled down on a big dog pillow in front of me - Today is the first day she hasn't needed to sit with me to relax!

I appreciate all the feedback!