Expert: Anna - 1/24/2002

Question
I own two female Borzoi The first is a very friendy well adjusted dog the second is timid and very reclusive she refuses to have anything to do with my family especially my husband, how can I get her to become more social and less timid? The dog is 4 Years old and I got her though a borzoi rescue who assured me that she was an affectionate and well balanced dog.

Answer
Kim,
I need to ask how long you have had the timid girl? Where did she come from? National Borzoi Recue Foundation or one of the regional Rescue groups?
Did you get both of them at the same time? How old is the first one who is well-adjusted? I also have two borzoi girls. They are both older dogs. One nearly twelve and one who is almost 10. My 9 year old is also shy natured but she loves both me and my husband. Some dogs may prefer women to men or vice versa. She may need to get used to your husband slowly.
Is there a favorite food that she really loves? If so have your husband keep some on him and offer it to her in small amounts frequently. Not aggressively but casually. If she won't come to him to get it then don't give it to her. This method could work if she learns to associate him with her favorite treat.
Sorry to ask so many questions but more info would help me answer your problem better. Are you subscribed to any of the Borzoi e-mail lists? If not may I have permission to post your question to one of the lists. There may be some experienced borzoi trainers online who have just the perfect solution.
Anna Stewart
jeweler@afweb.com