An insecure puppy

All the puppies I have had before made friends with me very quickly, but I have now got a new cocker puppy that even after three weeks is still very unsure about coming in close. She seems very happy, with her tail wagging when she is running round and even when I play with her, but when I call her in to my hands she wriggles along the last yard on her belly. What should I do — or will she grow out of this?

Her early experience, when she was with her mother and then after weaning at the breeder, could have a bearing on why she is displaying this insecurity around you. I have found that hopper-fed puppies were more prone to this type of behaviour as this method of rearing negated the necessity to actually handle the puppies at all. They grew well but lacked that close human contact at a critical learning stage in their lives.

Her happy demeanour is a very positive sign and it is up to you to make sure that she grows a strong affection for and trust in you. Every time you are with her get down to her level — sit or lie on the floor — but first arm yourself with plenty of tasty treats. Drop them around you and soon coming close will be instantly rewarded. Searching for the treats will also stop her worrying about how big humans really are. Do not try to force her to come close by extending your hand towards her, but keep your hands hidden and let her gradually overcome her reluctance. As time goes on she will begin to trust you more and more. Now let her see where the treats are coming from by dropping a few out of your hand when she is watching. A few days of positive reward for close contact and you will soon be the best of friends. PR

Get down to your puppy’s level to reassure her