Expert: Breeder - 6/14/2006

Question
Hi, I have a Bichon that is 16 months old and everytime he becomes excited he does the Happy Pee ~ so gross and embarassing.  Friends come over and he decides to greet them with peeing!  Will he out grow this or is there something that can be done?  Also, he's very timid with strangers, he'll bark until he feels comfortable around them but when people want to pet him he pulls back almost frighted.  He's never bit anyone and I've had him since he's been a puppy but he's always been this way, very shy.  Not like the normal Bichons you see that are so friendly.  Anything I can do to change this?  He's beautiful with my children, they lay all over him and he's full of love, I just scared that he'll nip when he gets older.  Thanks for your help, I really appreciate your advice!  :)

Answer
Nothing you can do.  He will always be like this.  The first 12 weeks of a puppy's life is the most critical.  Reputable breeders socialize there puppies.  So this behavior does not exist.  Also I think some of it is inherited.  Reputable breeder breed champions.  A champions must be outgoing never fearful.  It's all in the genetics. You can keep him crated when company arrives then slowly introduce him to your guests.