Doggy playmates sought for my nervous dog

[Louisianna2012]

Hi there,

I have a 5 year old German Shepherd x Alaskan Malamute who is nervous of meeting a lot of dogs - big or small. Its a very long story, and I have been working with an amazing dog trainer, but essentially I need to meet quite specific types of dogs for her to try and socialise with.

Could your four legged friend be her new best friend?!

You need to be an experienced dog owner with a real understanding of dog behaviour. Your hound needs to be practiced in the ways of meeting new and nervous dogs - so confident, but will avert eye contact and hold a relaxed posture. Submissive dogs wont work, neither will boisterous dogs that dont understand that staring really makes her worry!

When she finally meets the 'right one' she plays beautifully! And really benefits from her doggy pal.

I would love to find her a new doggy pal. Would love to hear from anyone who thinks their dog has the temperament to help! I live in Sydenham, but can get to Crystal Palace and occasionally Peckham Rye/Goose Green/Forest Hill on foot etc.

Thanks so much for your help! Louise - and Marni :)

[SearchDog]

Hi Louise,

We may be able to help you out. I'm slightly bemused as your dog is my name sake (Marnie- is how I spell it).

I am training 2 dogs for search and rescue and so have a very good idea of dog behaviours etc. I've had my own challenges with my dog (she is a herder and resource guards me) but I'd say we are in a much better place now. So I'd have to know more about your particular situation and issues before I would risk an introduction. However, the other dog I help train belongs to my friend and is a very lovely dog who would probably may make a good first introduction (if my friend agrees), and then if that goes well we could try her with my dog whose more of a 'strong character'. It might be worth your trainer supervising introductions? would they be willing to do this? Who are you training with?

Cheers

[Louisianna2012]

Thanks so much for your response - i'll drop you a PM.

[Peckhamgatecrasher]

I need glasses. I just read that as "dodgy playmates sought..."

[Louisianna2012]

Ha! No, just legit doggy playmates please! :p

[Louisianna2012]

Hi there Marnie, I sent you a PM - not sure if you got it or maybe you can no longer help? Thanks, Lou :)

[Join]

Have sent you a PM