QuestionI got this 8months old maltese a few days ago. Someone found him and his brother but due to financial situation, they could not keep them, so I got one of them.
He is extremely skittish and terrified of everything, he will not let us hold him and he hides behind the washer/dryer. He will not eat in our presence and runs away when we try to touch him.
I think he might have been abused or maybe he has brain damage. I don't know if dogs can have non verbal Autism because he hasn't barked at all. I don't know what to do, We really like this puppy but I don't know if I want to pump money and energy into a non-responsive dog. Please advise.
AnswerHello Dee
this is normal behaviour for dogs who have been left without human love or attention for prolongued periods, more so these breeds. It is important that you go about your daily life ignoring the dog and wait till he feels safe enough to come to you, they will and do want human attention so be patient.
Take some food and lie on the ground, dont look at the dog but place food by your body, make no attempt to touch the dog just wait till he comes to take the food then in a soft voice say good boy well done. The tone of your voice will indicate he is safe and he will come closer each day.
Dont over power the dog be patient and trust me this is a breed that once knows you will never leave your side and be human attached till the day you part.Barking only happens when a dog feels safe within its boundaries, it will happen so lease again be patient.
