Question:
In August, I purchased an 11-month-old silky terrier named Norman from a breeder who also showed her dogs. She told me that he had been sold in April, and the man kept him for a month and then returned him. She did not tell me what the problem was but did say I could call the previous owner if I wanted to. It was as if she didn't know why he did not want to keep Norman. I know returning the dog was not done without some thought, because the breeder does not return your money when you take the dog back.Norman would be a perfect dog for a single female with no males in the house. He is just fine with other dogs and OK with children. I have six grandsons -- 10-1/2 to 3-1/2 years old -- but he definitely does not like adult males. He barks and runs in circles when my husband comes into the house and keeps it up until you put him in his carrier or pick him up and calm him down, if you can catch him. Anything my husband does will start the barking and running -- a sneeze, moving his feet, turning the page of a new
Mrs. D.C.R., Suffolk, Va Feb 11, 2007
Answer:
My educated guess, considering your terrier's age, is that he was sold to the man at around 7 months old. This is past what is called the critical period for socialization, which is between 6 to 10 weeks of age, when a puppy bonds with people most readily. A pup raised only with dogs, with minimal human contact, will be wild and unapproachable by 3 to 4 months old. Pups raised by only female caregivers and having no socialization with men or children during the early critical months of social and emotional development are often terrified when they meet men or children. Impatience, ignorance and rough treatment by the first owner could have made things worse.Your husband should not force himself on poor Norman. Just be patient, take him for walks on the leash with your husband and sneak the leash over to him now and then. A short course of Valium or Xanax prescribed by your veterinarian may also help Norman overcome his phobia.
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