As some of you know, Alki is very shy. When we first brought him home, he hid in the kitchen and jumped at our every move. By the next day, he was fine and quickly bonded with us. I brought him to my parents house on Friday and he was very shy around them. He started warming up to my mom a little but really hasn't become comfortable with any of my family. He runs over to us and hides...even after 3 days with them. That's not the part that worries me though. My cousins daughter (who's 10 and very gentle) walked slowly towards him, hand outstretched and talking nicely too him. Alki growled at her and backed up into a corner. I'm so worried he won't outgrow this. I don't want to take him to tw park and have him growling at strangers!

If she was making direct eye contact he may have seen it as a threat. He's still adjusting I'm sure. Reinforce good behavior is really the best advice I can give.

Having her come bearing gifts ( treats) next time could help too

She wasn't. He always bows his head down when someone comes walking towards him (unless it's me or Caitlyn). That's a good idea! I'll definitely try it. It's just so weird. Most puppies just run up to anyone and act happy and excited.

Instead of having your cousin approach, have Alki approach. It'll help gain confidence.

CatDen wrote:

She wasn't. He always bows his head down when someone comes walking towards him (unless it's me or Caitlyn). That's a good idea! I'll definitely try it. It's just so weird. Most puppies just run up to anyone and act happy and excited.

It doesn't sound like his breeder did a very good job of socializing him (some puppies are naturally shy, but the majority of the time when they are that shy, that young, it's a product of their upbringing). That means you and Caitlyn will have to work extra hard to make sure he is. The treats is what I would suggest as well. Don't have people approach him. While they are standing and talking to you, they should lightly toss treats in his direction. When he is comfortable enough to approach, then they can crouch down to his level and hand him a treat and praise him.