Hiding not socialized

Question
I have a Boston terrier that is 6 yrs old. She was a mill dog and isn't very socialized. She runs and hides in her crate all day. When I call her to go out she will come but is very skittish and afraid. What is the best way to let her adapt and do you think she will eventually turn around. She was bred to the point of fear I think. Please help she needs to have the life she deserves. She does pee and poop in the house if she isn't closely watched. She doesn't really let you know when she needs something.

Answer
Hi Ray

You do not say how long you have had her - I assume recently, and that she has lived in a puppy mill all her life?  Perhaps used for breeding?  If so, she is unlikely to ever fully adapt to life as a much loved pet but you can certainly hope to help her adapt as much as possible.

The best thing for her is time and patience.  Allow her the time to explore things/people/situations in her own time.  Don't overwhelm her or try to encourage her to come forward more than she wants to as this will make her worse, simply work on building a good, trusting relationship with her so she knows she can rely on you to keep her safe when she is scared.

Allow her free access to her crate and ensure she is never bothered when she is in it - she needs to learn it is a safe refuge if things get too much; she will gradually need it less and less but may always feel safest in it, which is fine.

She is lucky to have a kind new home with you so well done for that.

With regards house training, again it will be tricky for her as she has probably not been living in very clean conditions.  Treat her as a young puppy with no training - take her out every hour or two and quietly wait with her until she goes.  Reward her and let her back in.  never tell her off for having accidents indoors as these are your fault for not watching!

Good luck Ray

Lucy