I have just got a rescued Shih Tzu dog, male, who has been a Stud Dog on a puppy farm and he has had such a bad time that he is a very frightened dog and will not go out for walks on a lead. He is fine in a car or in my arms being carried but no way is he

[juner]

going to walk on lead. Is there anyone who has any ideas how I can get him to walk. He is 5 years old and a very lovely dog.

[welshlibranr]

I think it's just a matter of giving him time and encouragement really, our puppy is only 11 weeks, and hates the lead, but we find that if one of us walks in front of her she will follow!..........try that, although he's 5, it's the same really, he's never been used to a lead, just like our puppy, he needs to feel secure!.........keep at it, he'll soon be fine!........

[notasyoungasiwas]

I'd just like to congratulate you on rescuing this little dog who obviously needs a good, loving home - good on you. I should imagine it will be like training a puppy to walk on a lead, it will just take time, understanding and patience, but hopefully you'll get a more helpful answer.

[LoftyLottie]

I had the same with a rescued Yorkie. I took him out in my arms at first and gradually as his confidence grew he began to walk on the lead. At first he would only go in one direction. It takes time, but persevere. Keep taking him out in your arms - get him used to people to being cuddled and treated kindly.

The dog I rescued was 6 when we got him, virtually hairless and frightened of his own shadow. After a couple of years, he was a confident and really delightful little fellow, who was very sociable.

Good luck.

[LoftyLottie]

Actually, just after we got him, we got another small puppy aged 4 months and trained her - he loved her company and he learned alongside her.

[welshlibranr]

Loads of encouragement there from Lottie juner, sure the little guy will be fine given a little time!..........

[LoftyLottie]

He is gone now. Died aged 15 two years ago and sadly missed.

Benji:

http://i52.tinypic.com/29m5286.jpg

[juner]

Thank you everyone it has given me more confidence with him. We do have another younger Shih Tzu which wasn't a rescue and she is very good with him so perhaps with lots of love we will make him a happy little dog like our other one. At the moment it is a little heartbreaking seeing him so frightened.

[welshlibranr]

Lottie, lost my little friend two years ago in December, just got a new puppy, never thought I could do it!........but was so lonely without him!...now I have Callie, a cocker spaniel, she's lovely!.......very active and busy, but very loving and such good company!......so glad I finally got her!.......she can go out on walks on Thurs!....can't wait to walk her on the beach!.....

[notasyoungasiwas]

I know what you mean about seeing him so frightened juner - those damn puppy farms have an awful lot to answer to. Just imagine the joy when he is no longer scared and he is running around free and happy. Wonderful !

[welshlibranr]

juner, don't worry!..the fact that you have another dog, and she is happy and secure will help him so much!....sure he'll be fine!.........just needs a little time to adjust!........

[LoftyLottie]

Nice news Welsh about your new Pup. The pup we got as a companion for Benji is now nearing 10. I would love another one but Meggie isn't interested in other dogs at all and I think it would unsettle her. She got along OK with Benji, but totally ignores all other dogs.

However, if another little dog needing tlc just happens to come my way, I know I won't be able to resist!

Keep us updated juner. Picture please, and what is his name? x

[welshlibranr]

Lottie I was determined that I would never have another dog, but now I have Callie, I am so glad that I changed my mind!...she's really hard work, but so worth it!....

[LoftyLottie]

Can't imagine life without a dog. Picture of my Meggie is on the question below this one Welsh!

[welshlibranr]

will look Lottie, can't upload one of Callie, have tried!.....just won't work!........

[LoftyLottie]

Try using tinypic.com Welsh

[welshlibranr]

have tried tinypics lotttie!....no joy!.........think it'a my laptop!....and the new IE causing problems!.......

[jules77]

Aah well done on taking in this young man. As he is ok in your arms and sounds like he needs re assurance, have you thought of trying T Touch therapy, and/or one of the anxiety vests.

http://www.dfordog.co..._anxiety_calming.html

[juner]

Lottie I did answer your request for my little dogs name and an update. I did answer you but I must have done it wrong (again) as it doesn't show. Well his name is Rufus because he is so furry and cuddly and I will endeavour to get a photo on the site for all you good people also update his progress (or not). Thanks again everyone.

[LoftyLottie]

Looking forward to updates and photos of Rufus, Juner. He sounds just lovely - he's a lucky little fellow to have you!!

[lankeela]

Put a short lead on him and carry him somewhere safe, where you can put him down so he can mooch around with the lead left on. Gradually he will get used to it and you can catch hold of it and encourage him towards you. Then use a longer lead and encourage him with food if he will eat titbits. Slow process, but make it short and fun sessions. Try to avoid tightening the lead, let him go where he wants to and follow him at first.