Training mill rescue to take initiative

Question
I just adopted a 4 yr old cocker spaniel mill rescue dog.  Her fear of me and my fiance is completely gone but she wont leave her corner.  She does not communicate with us.  She wont get off of her bed to get food we have to bring food to her to try to entice her to eat, she wont go by the door  if she has to go potty, we just make sure to take her out about every 2 hours.  If we leave the room she will peer around the corner to see what we are doing but wont get off her dog bed to see us.  I love this dog already but I don't know how to get her to leave her little corner!

Answer
Hi Aleta,

Thank you for writing to me about your new family member.  My heart goes out to her for the harsh life that she has had in her four years of life.  Thankfully you have brought her into a loving home where she may have a chance of experiencing some love and kindness.

The first thing I would suggest is a full blood workup by your vet, including a thyroid panel.  It is always best to make sure that all is well in the medical department.

If a dog hasn't gone through the normal stages of emotional development, it is sometimes lost forever.  That being said, I believe that where there is life, there is hope.  I personally brought a dog back into the normal relm through a lot of love, attention, and touch.  I held her to my heartbeat and talked to her softly for hours every day.  Eventually she broke through the wall that had become her life and became the best dog I ever had.

In order to gain your dog's trust I would do some hand feeding and a lot of brushing, petting, massage and just resting quality together where she can feel your heart beating.  If she isn't showing aggression or dominance, you might want to let her sleep next to you for bonding purposes.

Taking long walks is also very bonding.  

You can also administer Rescue Remedy, 12 drops in her water and rub some on her gums.  

There are also dog phemerones referred to as DAP that are very calming for your dog.  Farnam is one company and you can do a web search for Comfort Zone DAP. This is the same sensation that puppies get from their mothers.

Give your dog time.  This is a whole new life for her.  Her trust and confidence has to deepen and she will need time for that to happen.  Make a little comfort area for her.  If it is a crate or the corner where she finds comfort, fix it up like a little den for her.

When you take her out to go potty, make a fun time out of it with treats and praise.  

I wish you the very best of luck and I think you for having a kind and loving heart.

Best Regards,
Shelley Davis