My dog doesn't like me!

[MajesticCollies]

Pacmanides,

Hey you just rescued this poor baby from a shelter. She will needs time like Michelle said. I work with many rescues all the time. Unfortunately you really don't know thier background. Was this pet a piece of furniture?, was it abused?, you don't know. So now this dog just doesn't want the basics ( it might only had the basics) this dog wants love!!!!!!!!! Yes Females can be a little stubborn but having a happy voice around the dog at all times can help, showing her your unconditional love to make her comfortable and happy. Special treats for no reason, extra play time everyday. Make her feel like part of the family. Want to watch tv? Have her sit with you and give her lots of petting and massaging so she knows "hey this person cares!"

Its real hard to connect to new people if this dog doesn't know what the "pack" is like. So its now your job to give her the pack environment. Special walks, go to a dog park to see how she responds. Just stay focused and resocialize this baby and bring back her happiness. She will respond eventially.
Hope some of this helps, I'm sure you will get many responses and help on this thread.

[borzoimom]

In talking with another person on aim, I am also reminded of one of my shepherds that came as a rescue to my house. This dog the owner father had died, and the mother couldnt care for the dog. The dog was in such deep depression- having lost all cue on life with the death of her owner. She was so depressed we had to end up tube feeding her for a week as she almost died she would not eat- I mean NOTHING.. She could not understand why she was at my house, where was her dad, and she was going to wait for him.
It took months before she freely ate, and about 4 months before she actually started to play. You just never know as stated above- . BTW_ most rescues come to a foster then placed, but her reaction to being moved was so severe, she lived out her life with me as just a pet..

[Queen of Poop]

It took dog school and many, many months before I knew that my Sasha was actually going to be my Sasha. I woke up one morning and opened my eyes. There, nose to nose with me, was Sasha. I asked her how the heck she got there without waking me. She was laying beside me in the bed with her nose right on mine looking me right in the eyes. I knew then that I'd won her over. That was 11 years ago. She's still my baby. Lots of love will work wonders. When you're watching TV, talk to Sam. Say nice, loving things. It's all tone of voice. Give treats now and then, for no reason. Good luck. Have patience this poor doggie needs to learn that you're ok.

[lizbud]

How do you feel about this dog? Do you feel comfortable enough to
just try playing a game with the dog. I would suggest that you just give
yourself time. Maybe take the dog for training lessons. When you both are
focusing on learning a class lesson, instead of watching each other for
reactions.

[cyber-sibes]

Every dog is different. Just keep taking care of her and she will get it. then when you least expect it, she will want to be everywhere you are.

Here's what happened with my dogs (sorry it's so long)
We got Star as a small puppy, and she seemed so much more bonded to my son & my husband. For years I felt she treated me like "the maid". She saw me as the person who took care of feeding, poop scooping, and walks. She got "big affection" from everyone else. Then I got another puppy who adored me from day 1 - I loved that girl beyond belief! But she was hit by a car at only 3 yrs. After that, my older dog started to be my buddy. And while she may still show more tail wagging & gives kisses to anybody in the world but me, we are very bonded. I turn around and there she is. I walk out of the room and suddenly she's dropping a toy at my feet. She stands and stares at me alot. Apparently she telecommunicates, LOL! She's just a more aloof dog than my others have been, but I love her so & wouldn't trade her for the world.

So hang in there. Obedience classes would be a good activity for both of you. A pro can help you learn to communicate with each other better. And, it's fun! Give her a little time, love works wonders!

[shoneypaws]

Chow's are notorious for the lack of expression. It's what makes them good hunters and protectors.

Perhaps this poor guy was never given attention by his owner and the only attention he received was from visitors.

As everyone has said time will heal. Treats and hand feeding are usually the best way to bond. I know it's a big no-no but I have went as far to let a feral cat eat off my plate in order to form a bond.

[CathyBogart]

My boyfriend's family has a chow, Susie. Susie is not very expressive at all,like shoneypaws said. She will show pleasure at getting affection, but it took her a long time to warm up to certain members of the family. Hopefully your Sam is just taking time to warm up to you too.