Dog Adoption

Question
My girlfriend and I adopted a 1 1/2 year old Black&Tan Coonhound a few days ago. He's been very well behaved but he seems a little timid, reserved, and maybe depressed. I know we should give him time to get comfortable and we've been spending alot of time with him but I noticed he is much more happy, outgoing, and playfull when he's on walks on plays with other dogs. This is when he seems to come out of his shell. He seems more reserved and hesitant when playing with my girlfriend and I. He mostly lies down on the floor and isn't active when he's in the apartment. Any recommendations? THank you so much for your time.

- PL

Answer
My big recommendation is to give him time. At this point, you are still basically strangers. If he's been kept as an outside dog (and many coonhounds are) and around other dogs, those are the situations he will be more comfortable in. Life in an apartment is probably very strange to him, and if he's been an outside dog, there are many objects and smell inside that he doesn't understand. This behavior isn't at all unusual in recently adopted dogs. Give him his space, be friendly but not overwhelming (let him make the approaches), be consistent and fair with household rules and routines and one day he will wake up knowing he is "home". It can take months for that to happen, but when it does, you'll know it. Good luck with your new dog. Sandy Case MEd CPDT www.positivelycanine.com