I just got a new puppy. He's a German Shepherd about 14 weeks old and he's scared of just about everything, including me. He'll pretty much only come over to me if I sit down on the floor, and I think that's only because I di that with treats the first day, and now he associates that with my sitting. But if I'm standing and I approach him he turns and darts behind a couch or something. We've had a couple good play sessions with a lot of verbal and physical praise, but is there anything I can do to help build the trust with him? I know he's lonely and misses his brothers and sisters, but I want him to be a happy healthy pup!

He's also very afraid of the outside. He's gotten kind of used to the inside (except the stairs) but when I take him outside, he shrinks back, resists the leash/lead or runs back to the house/door. What can I do to help him get confidence outside? German Shepherds are some of the best dogs to train, why is he so unreceptive?......then again it is only the first week :?

Indeed this little fellow seems to be somewhat more timid and submissive than you would expect. All I can say is that it takes time and lots of love and patience. He seems to react more positively when you are sitting by the carpet also because you are at his level and appear less intimidating. I wonder if the previous owners had him socialized enough?

I would hold off the leash at this time as it can be stressful on a new dog in a new house with new people. He shouldn't get to far as long as you keep a good eye on him. Keep him leashed only if absolutely necessary like if you live nearby a road or traffic.

Start leash training gradually only once he seems comfortable at home. You will first leave the collar on for a few minutes and then increase the time as he gets used to it. Then you would put the leash and keep it slack during meals and play time. It took about 3-4 days to get mine used to it.

Let him explore one place at a time, take him out only for his business right now. He might be overwhelmed by all the new sights and sounds. Let him get used to your home, try to play with him as much as you can on the carpet at his level, toss him toys and praise with a happy voice. This is a great way to bond. Once he feels secure around you and the home he can be brought out more for some exploring. It should be easier at this point.

When you must get up, do it slowly and do not walk too fast around. When you are walking and apporaching him talk to him in a happy voice and toss him a treat, so he learns that you are not intimidating, but rather great things happen when you are around!

With time, this fellow should come around. I fear he was not properly socialized and has not been exposed enough to other people and places. I adopted 2 Rotties ast 7 weeks old, although they seemed to be ok, they were stressed and both had diarrhea for 2 days. It is difficult for some to adjust and it just takes time.

He is still adjusting and perhaps he had some bad experience from the past. What he needs from you is your patience. Building trust takes quite some time. Introduce things to him one at a time so he will have time to adjust to them. Consistency is the key to building a trusting relationship with your dog.

thanks for the advice. He's gotten a lot better just over a couple of days. He's definitely more secure around me and the house, but the outside is still foreign and intimidating. He'll walk around the back yard at my heels, but if I leash him and try to lead him, he simply plants his feet and doesn't want to budge. We'll get there though!

That's good to hear! I'm sure there will be improvement each day! Just don't rush things. He needs more time.

[Kingsbridge Cav]

Turid Rugaas has a great book on calming signals for dogs. "On Talking Terms With Dogs". I deal with a sampling of foster dogs and some weekend borders in my home and have found the information priceless! Here are some things that will help you get started.
Being at ground level with your pup will help to start and is one of the basic calming signals. I'm sure you've heard not to look him straight in the eye when you approach him. With a Shepherd you will want to establish dominance, but only after you have gained his trust.You can look him in the eye later, but not as you are teaching him to trust you and not at first approach. Try licking your lips and yawning as you approach your pup. These are the first signs they use when approaching each other. There are so many other calming signals, but these will get you started. You may want to find the book. It's a quick read and I found it on Amazon for $6.