6 month old American Bulldog

Question
I just bought a A.B. . He was raised in a kennel , he is very nervous and afraid I think he will come out of it once he knows he's not in danger and that he's in a loving home ... Am I right ? How long can something like this take ? and was it because he was not socialized properly ? he is u.t.d on all vaccinations and seems to be real healthy .... Is it neglect that would have this effect on a puppy or is it normal for a puppy raised in a kennel to act this way? I have had several dogs & puppies and none were this skittish

Answer
Hello Vaughn,

I think you're right - and this kind of behaviour is not unusual for a puppy adapting to a new home. How long it takes can vary - but you should see steady progress as you bond with him. It would be best to get him out and around other dogs - perhaps a puppy class at your local dog club. There, he could be around other people and dogs in a supervised environment, and the trainers there can suggest things you might do with him to help him adapt. It should not take very long at all. Just be 'matter of fact' as you do things with him, so he knows you are the one in control, that he is safe with you, and that he can look to you for cues of how to behave. Do you have a reason (other than his shy/nervous behaviour) to suspect he was neglected prior to him coming to live with you? If you do, please talk to someone in your community who can look into it.

Hope this helps!