new puppy afraid

Question
I adopted a 7month old  lab mix from the shelter. She is afraid of everything. My 9 year old lab is helping her a lot but what should I be doing to train her. Is it to soon for obedience classes. Have had her 13 days.

Answer
Brenda,

First of all, good for you for rescuing a homeless dog instead of buying a puppy. Rescue dogs often come with emotional baggage and some social problems, so this isn't abnormal at all. The fact that your 9 year old has sort of taken her under his/her wing is great and it certainly will be beneficial to the puppy.

All puppies need socialization and basic obedience training. It's never too late for this, and the answer to your question about whether or not it is too early is an unequivical NO. Absolutely not. Puppies as young as 8 weeks old can begin training. Enrolling her in a puppy class will do wonders for her. Puppy classes are sort of like the kindergarten of obedience training and help with socialization more than anything. Some of this will pass with time too, as she bonds with you and begins to feel at home. But training is definately important - fear can become a serious problem if left unchecked. It often turns into aggression when the dog gets older. Find a good trainer in your area to work with and I know you'll be able to clear all of this up! Below are some links I think might help you.  The first gives you some suggestions to help you find the right dog trainer. The second discusses socialization. You can find more great information on these topics just by doing some googling.

http://www.courteouscanine.com/findtrainer.shtml
http://www.healthypet.com/library_view.aspx?ID=114&sid=1

One last recommendation - be sure not to coddle the dog when she is showing unrational fear. You can be reassuring and calming to her as the pack leader, and she needs to know that you will protect her so she will feel safe with you - but comforting and coddling her with phrases like "shh, it's okay" will only reinforce the idea that there is something there she should be afraid of. I hope that makes sense, it's a fine line to walk but you can do it.

Congrats on your new family member and good luck!

Ashley