puppy behavoir questions

Question
Hi Charlotte,
I recently got a 3 month old Belgian Malinois, I have had him for 1 week. He was shipped in a crate from Texas and the first day he was very very scared. He didn't bark once and kept his tail between his legs and slept. Each day he got better and better. He doesn't seem so scared anymore, Im no longer afraid to leave him alone. Anyway, my question is, he seams kind of non-social and lazy. I know the Malinois bread is supposed to be a VERY lively breed, but this dog just seems to sleep (or at least lay down and do nothing) ALL day long. When I do get him up to play with his toys, he doesn't get too into it. He wags his tail, but not as quickly as Ide expect. I throw his toy, he trots after it. I've yet to see him run, he just walks briskly. Furthermore, when I have my dad and sister around, he doesn't warm up to them too well. He allows them to pet him, but he seams uncomfortable. He seems more comfortable laying at my feet than socializing with my dad or sister. Also, I have tried to take him for walks, and he seems to dislike his leash, even then, getting him to walk around the block is a task. I bought him from a breeder and I thought by doing so I would avoid any behavioral problems, but he just seems sheltered and non social. Is this normal for a dog in its new environment, will he get better? Or is there something I need to do? I wanted to take him to puppy preschool, but I don't think he's comfortable enough for that yet...Anyway, thanks in advance, I hope you can help me out here, Im not quiet sure what to do. I just want the best for my dog and am willing to do whatever it takes.

Answer
Has he been seen by a veterinarian yet?
He should have a thorough physical, as soon as possible, if he has not been seen.
I am assuming the breeder was a responsible one, and sent along a record of his shots and exams to date, but if he/she didn't, find out if he has had his puppy shots.
The shipping could have been a traumatic experience for him, and at 3 months, he had time to bond with someone, if he was paid attention to.
If he was not handled by people, and played with, then a little socializing is in order.
He may have picked up a little bug, on the airplane, too.
also, someone at the airline may have been rough with him, and may have made him afraid.
He has only been there one week, and that is soon for him to be comfortable with a lot of strangers.
It sounds like he is trying to bond with you.
He  may not be playing much, because he doesn't know how rowdy he can get. He may have been yelled at for playing a lot, and is waiting to see if you are going to yell at him.
If henyas been checked by his vet, and he is healthy, has had all his puppy shots, and health problems have been ruled out.
He may be missing his mom and litter mates,if he was still with them.
After health problems have been ruled out, just be very gentle with him, and give him some more time.
I wouldn't push the walks yet. His health will not suffer if he doesn't get a lot of exercise for a few weeks. Bring him along slowly with this.
He may be afraid you are gioing to take him somewhere and leave him. Give him time to adjust to you, and his new surroundings.
If he has had all his shots, and you have a Petsmart or Petco near you, take him shopping.
He may see some other puppies there, with other people, and begin to relax a little more.
I wouldn't try to lead him. Put on the leash so if he wants to get down and walk, you will have him secured, but start out by carrying him in,and put him in the basket. I put my little Lasha in the kiddy seat. I take a little flat pillow or a small blanket folded, because the wire basket is uncomfortable.
Meantime, just let him follow you around, and talk to him, A LOT!
Coax him to come to you, rater than try to chase after him,etc.
When he sees you are going to give him his space, he will start to relax with you.
Keep me posted, and if there is anything you think I can help with, feel free to write me.
I recently fostered a litter of 5 puppies, that had not been handled, and it took a week for me to get them to let me pick them up.
Dogs usually come to me immediately, so it was a comedown to me.LOL
He just may not be used to attention from people, and he is trying to get a read on you, and those other strangers.
Good luck. Sounds like you are a caring person, and concerned about his feelings. I think the two of you are going to be very close, real soon.