Shy Aussie

by rachel

at the farm where she was born

Hi there!

I just brought home a brand new, 12-week old mini australian shepherd puppy (or North American Shepherd, for the breed purists :) Having done my research on the breed, I know that they can be a bit shy and reserved by nature. I've only have her five days and I know I can't expect her to be bouncing all over the place and loving everyone she meets just yet, but she seems awfully skittish, even at home.

She loves me and is very much a velcro pup already, wanting to lie next to me and follow me around, but around new people or in new situations she is shaky and timid. Sometimes she even shies away at home, and can't stand loud noises outside. She's still a baby and sleeping a lot, and when she plays she plays well -- just not for very long, and she often crawls into my lap if she gets startled by a ball bouncing too high or a toy crashing against the chair.

I guess my question is this -- as the weeks go by, will she naturally adjust and become more comfortable here? Should I continue to do what I've been doing by introducing her to new people and situations and playing and not rewarding her shy behavior? Of do you think this is a problem that will never fully go away?

Thanks for your time!!

Penny's Mom




Hi Rachel
Your Penny looks adorable, a very pretty little girl!

It seems that you have done your research and are very keen to do what is best for her - that's wonderful. Right now I personally don't think you've got too much to worry about as it's very early days.

After spending the first 3 months of her life in one place, with her canine family and people and surroundings she knew, it's a big change for her to come into a totally new environment. It's totally understandable for her to be a bit nervous and feel the need to seek out security - that's YOU!

I wouldn't rush her at this point, but don't coddle her either. Continue to socialize her in a happy, confident way and praise her when she is brave. It sounds to me as though you are already doing everything right.

Of course, just like people, puppies are all individuals and some are very bold and outgoing from day one, others more hesitant and shy. There's a whole range of 'normal' :o)

It may be that Penny is a bit on the shy side, and not the bravest or most outgoing puppy, but there's nothing wrong with that as long as she isn't aggressively fearful or suffering from extreme anxiety. Plenty of ongoing positive socialization will help her overcome this and learn self-confidence.

Aussies are very intelligent, and a good dog obedience class, and then maybe agility or something similar will also be very good for her.

For now, just give yourselves time to get to know each other and take it one step at a time. I think it's going to work out just fine. Best of luck with that little cutie.