[mlelmbla]

Hello All! I need some advice about training my dog. A quick background about her:

She is a Cocker Spaniel that was bred in a puppy mill for the first five years of her life and exhibits the signs of being forced to live in a cage all of her life. Ive had her since March and she has adapted some dog behaviors such as chewing on bones and she has always been good about going outside. However she is terrified of going for walks because of her fear of people (particularly men). She is also easily startled by loud noises and sudden movements. She adapts to my friends after she meets them multiple times. She likes other animals and my cat and her peacefully coexist. She wont take treats from people very often. At times i can get her to take a treat from me but usually i have to leave it on the floor for her. She is very submissive (we just got over her submissive urinating problem a few months ago) and eager to please but she gets confused easily over certain commands.

I feel like we're finally at the point where i can start doing some basic training with her but I'm sort of at a loss of where to begin. I do have experience training previous dogs, but they have not been through any sort of situation that this one has. I know Im going to have to have a lot of patience and persistence with her but any advice from people that have been in my shoes is greatly appreciated! Thanks!!