Expert: Jill Connor, Ph.D. - 1/24/2012

Question
QUESTION: Hello,
we just adopted a 8yr old Cockapoo named Dugan. I noticed that his taolis down covering his butt. Could this be from anxiety and being nervous? If so, what can we do to help him? Thank for for your time.

ANSWER: At age eight, this dog comes to you with a long history of experience you know nothing about.  A tail held down can indicate a state of low social status, depression, anxiety and confusion.  It takes an adult dog months to habituate to a new household.  If you offer calm, consistent leadership with lots of reward for behaviors you WANT, while ignoring behaviors you don't want, the dog will find his place and will relax.

One good source of learning how to read dog body language is Turid Rugaas.  She has an online site and also a book with video.  Here are links to both:
http://www.canis.no/rugaas/index.php
http://www.dogwise.com/itemdetails.cfm?ID=DTB527

Don't give this dog free run of the house right now.  Create a special place for Dugan (the kitchen) with baby gate when you are not at home.  Soft bed, safe toys (especially Buster Cube which dispenses a portion of the dog's two daily meals when the dog rolls it around; you will sit on the floor with him when you introduce it and roll it yourself so he gets the idea.)

If you allow the dog to sleep in your room, give him a soft bed close by where you can reach down to give him a pat or two while he is AWAKE.  You will learn more about him and his personality as time progresses.  If you have further questions as this unfolds, use followup feature so I can see original question/answer.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hello,

I have a follow up question. Our Dog Dugan who is an 8yr old cockapoo. We adopted him about 2 months ago. He has done very well with adjusting to his new family and enviroment. His original family now wants to come visit him. My fiance and I are uncertain if this would be a good idea. Not sure if he would become depressed after seeing them. They also have young kids that im sure he misses. We need your expert advice. Should we meet them or have them come to our home. Truley don't want to take him to their house.
thank you so much!!

Answer
NO.

The dog has adjusted to your home. You are his legitimate owners, legally.  I have been in this position myself and the answer is always "no".  It confuses a dog terribly and can upset his adjustment to you and your lifestyle.  The dog was surrendered for whatever reason at age EIGHT.  That alone tells you something about these people.  Politely refuse and, should they appear at your door uninvited, do not let them in.