Please Help!

Question
Hello...I have a few questions..My fiance and I were given a Husky from a lady that said she just wanted Star (the Husky) to go to a good home. She's a very mellow dog, but we also have a Beagle and a Dalmatian they are both very mellow as well. Star however isn't adjusting well, she doesn't eat much, and refuses to be trained. The women said Star is general afraid of Men because of her abusive ex-husband. With that being said Star doesn't come to my fiance when he calls her and looks terrified every time he pets her. When she is let of the leash she runs away. I'm not sure what to do, we want to train her because we'll be moving soon but she doesn't eat the treats we try to give her and she seems to act terrified every time we try to train her. I was wondering how could we help her adjust and train her and are there special treats you've found that your huskies really enjoy that we might be able to try? Please help! Thank you  

Answer
First of all realize that Siberians have extremely effective metabolisms and often eat substantially less than other canines.  Feeding a super-premium dog food, my dogs eat just one measuring cup of food per day.  Keep an eye on weight, and if the dog isn't loosing anything significant, the diet is fine.  You may want to try pouring a little broth over the food to encourage eating if she isn't eating at all though (low-sodium chicken broth is my general choice).

Abuse is tough to get through, but time and patience are key.  Treat based training can help some here, but Sibes (not particularly being food orientated) sometimes respond better to play time, running, or just some good massages.  Siberians are also not good at recall and should NEVER be let off leash except in confined areas.

As for treats to try - keep experimenting, but cheese has always been a "go to" choice . . . Kraft American Singles work wonders . . .   The key to help here, a gentle but firm hand will help her adjust.

Feel free to write back with more questions or concerns.