fearful puppy

Question
I have a one and a half year old bishon. I am his third owner. The dog (teddy) has always been very skiddish around new people, and generally warms up to them after a few visits. Unfortunately, he is terrified of my husband. It was an inconvenience at first but has developed into a greater fear. He has never hurt teddy and does not even scold him anymore, but when he walks into the room teddy shakes and will even at mess in the house if my husband calls him. We do not know what to try anymore because the dog is so terrified. If you have any advice that would be great. Thanks

Answer
Elizabeth, Teddy needs to learn to trust your husband. I would recommend that your husband begin doing EVERYTHING for Teddy, from feeding, to taking him for walks, to taking him out to potty, and playing with him if Teddy is comfortable doing so. You should remain on a back burner for a while, until Teddy is no longer afraid of your husband.

I would also recommend hiring a trainer, preferably one that can come to your house, since Teddy is so fearful, and work with your husband and the dog one-on-one to obedience train him.

If Teddy messes in the house out of fear, you should NOT scold him, as that could make the problem worse.