Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!
Become a member today!
Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
Already a member? Sign in
Become a credit card member today!
Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
when you use Petco Pay!
APPLY NOW
Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

My new puppy is scared of people. How long until she trusts us?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Border Collie | Female | spayed | 3 months and 4 days old | 4.5 lbs

My brother and his wife recently got a dog (border collie) 12 week old. We suspect that the dog was beaten up by the former owners. She doesn't want new people in her life as she remains quite scared. How long will it take her to get over her dislike in humans and start rebuilding her trust in us?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on December 5th, 2019

That is quite young for a puppy to be very scared of everything. If you just got her a few days ago, it may take time for her to adjust (usually 2-3 weeks) before she fully feels herself. However if she is acting so scared that she won't interact at all, isn't eating, or wanting to do normal puppy things (playing, exploring, etc), it is best to seek out a veterinary behaviorist in your area. They can help ensure that Bella starts receiving positive socialization in her environment and with her new family to try and help with her issues.

You can learn more about veterinary behaviorists here: http://www.dacvb.org/about/member-directory/

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Jeffrey Milner
Veterinarian
Published on May 7th, 2017
I'm sorry to hear Bella had such a frightening experience! In terms of how she will be in the future, this is a matter of training, patience, and instinct. Since you have stated that this is the first interaction she has ever had with another puppy, I am under the impression that she was either orphaned or an only puppy. In either case, Bella was unfortunately stripped of the extremely important times when learning and socialization take place among puppies. While training can certainly help, we can not go back in time and have her relive these experiences if this was the case. The first thing I would do is see how she does with another dog that is known to be extremely calm, the same size, and well-trained. For any behavior that you see that is liked, be sure to reward this with praise and treats. If she is still showing fear, you will have to approach the situation much more slowly. She will need to be reintroduced to dogs at a distance first, rewarding any preferable behaviors or interest shown towards other dogs. This can be a long and daunting task, but in some cases can have rewarding results. I would keep her on a leash at all times for now during any of these play dates or training sessions, as well as the other dogs involved. Having complete control over the situation in the beginning will be of great importance. If you have any other questions for me regarding training or how to go about this sort of thing, feel free to request a consultation to speak in greater detail. Good luck!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Related Questions

My new puppy is scared and hides. Is she adjusting or abused?

Though it is not normal behavior for the average puppy, it may be completely understandable for Alaia, depending on where she came from. If she is from a pet shop, puppy mil, or other abusive situation, it will take her itme to trust you. Always let her make the first move for the time bieng. Feed her from your hand so she begins to associate good things with you (you don'thave to do her whole meal that way!). You seem to be able to judge very well when she will be receptive to you (when she's sleepy, for example), so go by those parameters in your interactions with her. Do not expose her to anything potentially traumatic of possible (like a dog park or a visit with your relatives). A vet trip may be unavoidable, but keep it as low-key as possible and notify the staff in advance about her problem. If you need further assistance, you can click on the prompt to initiate a consult. Good luck!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Health & Wellness

My new dog is scared, hides, won't eat. How do I help her adjust?

Poor little thing. It can take some time for dogs that are scared and poorly socialized to adjust. I find that it can be a big help and confidence booster for them to see you interact with another dog. Sometimes they can also relate better to having another dog around. That being said, this should be a calm, easy going and non threatening dog to her. Perhaps an adult sweet friendly dog that is a similar size. It is important for her to eat and drink, so you may have to put those things in her kennel where she feels safe for now. Continue to be patient, talk in a calm and gentle voice and she will eventually learn to trust you. She lacks confidence right now and that does not come overnight, I would consider having her interact with you and another dog if it is the right dog.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Training & Behavior

My new puppy is skittish and cowers. How can I make her comfortable?

Behavior training would be a great way to help her gain confidence. You can look into puppy socialization and obedience classes in your area. I'd also recommend asking any strangers to allow her to approach them, and to offer a treat. Sophia Yin's website is a great resource for behavior questions - this link has good information on socialization in general: https://drsophiayin.com/blog/entry/puppy-socialization-stop-fear-before-it-starts/

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My new adopted puppy is shy after 3 days. Am I doing something wrong?

I recommend giving Ella some time. It can take up to 2 weeks for dogs to get comfortable with their new surroundings. Give her attention, love and play time. You should see her slowly warm up to you and your family. Congratulations on your new puppy! Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Health & Wellness

My puppy is very scared of people. How can I make her friendly?

Gradually introduce her to one person at a time. Do this in a neutral location such as a park. Begin with a short intro from a distance and gradually increase the time while closing the distance. Correct any negative behavior immediately and praise good behavior. End each session with a small reward. As she acclimates to one person, add another then another. Take her to as many public places as possible as well. This will acclimate her further to people and crowds. The use of a pheromone product, such as the Adaptil collar, may help decrease any anxiety. This will take time and patience. Do not rush or force her to meet people, especially if she is trying to run away. Give her a break when this happens and try again once she settles down.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Health & Wellness

Why is my new puppy so scared and anxious, refusing to eat or move?

That is a very severe case, and very unusual for a puppy that age. I would highly recommend first taking Wilby to your vet to make sure he doesn't have an underlying illness or condition that could be causing this behavior. The next step would be to talk to a veterinary behaviorist in your area that can work with you to overcome this extreme fear with a combination of positive behavioral training and medication as needed. In the US you can use this site to find a behaviorist near you for more help: http://www.dacvb.org/about/member-directory/

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Training & Behavior

My new puppy is afraid of me. How can I bond while training her?

Remember that, while you thought about this dog and bringing her into your home, all she knows is that one day she was Here, and the next day she was THERE, with no warning or explanation. She is confused and frightened. Try letting her come to you when she's ready, instead of approaching her. Don't pet her for the time being. Just be a calm and stable presence i her life. Understand, too, that dogs have no idea what a "name" is, other than a familiar word that usually has something to do with her. Yes, there are things you can do to help her adjust to her new surroundings, but this is not a "one or two sentence" answer. If you would like me to work with you on it, just click on the prompt ot initiate a consult.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share