Hey everyone, I adopted a dog named Hailey a few days ago (she’s a husky/shepherd mix, about 1.5 years old). She’s sweet but definitely unsure and a bit fearful. The issue is she’s growling at my kids—especially my 2-year-old. My 2-year-old is trying to give her space, but it’s working maybe 70% of the time. Hailey even growls sometimes when she’s just exploring the house. I’m walking her a lot (4-5 times a day), and she’s getting better on walks. I want to set her up for success, but safety is a priority. Any advice? Thanks in advance!
Sounds like she’s just super nervous. Have you tried giving her a safe space where the kids can’t bother her, like a crate?
Lily said:
Sounds like she’s just super nervous. Have you tried giving her a safe space where the kids can’t bother her, like a crate?
Not yet. I was thinking about getting her a crate. Would that help her feel safer?
Lily said:
Sounds like she’s just super nervous. Have you tried giving her a safe space where the kids can’t bother her, like a crate?
Yeah, definitely. It can be her little ‘den.’ Just make it comfy and let her go in there on her own.
Lily said:
Sounds like she’s just super nervous. Have you tried giving her a safe space where the kids can’t bother her, like a crate?
What’s a ‘den’? Sorry, new to all this!
Lily said:
Sounds like she’s just super nervous. Have you tried giving her a safe space where the kids can’t bother her, like a crate?
What’s a ‘den’? Sorry, new to all this!
Oh, it’s just like a cozy spot where the dog feels secure. Like their own little safe zone.
I’d be careful with growling—it’s her way of saying she’s uncomfortable. Redirect the kids if they’re too close.
Mitchell said:
I’d be careful with growling—it’s her way of saying she’s uncomfortable. Redirect the kids if they’re too close.
Good point. I’m trying to teach my 2-year-old to give her space, but it’s hit or miss.
Mitchell said:
I’d be careful with growling—it’s her way of saying she’s uncomfortable. Redirect the kids if they’re too close.
Totally normal. It’s a learning curve for both kids and dogs. Patience is key!
Have you tried having the kids give her treats? Like palm-up so she has to lick it off? That might help build trust.
yub said:
Have you tried having the kids give her treats? Like palm-up so she has to lick it off? That might help build trust.
I haven’t yet, but I love that idea! I’ll have them try after her walks when she’s calmer.
yub said:
Have you tried having the kids give her treats? Like palm-up so she has to lick it off? That might help build trust.
Awesome! It worked for my rescue dog—food is magic for bonding lol.
If she’s part shepherd, she might be herding when she wants them next to or in front of her. Does she do that on walks?
Mickey said:
If she’s part shepherd, she might be herding when she wants them next to or in front of her. Does she do that on walks?
Oh, I didn’t realize that’s what she was doing. Yeah, she definitely wants people in specific spots on walks.
Mickey said:
If she’s part shepherd, she might be herding when she wants them next to or in front of her. Does she do that on walks?
Yep, classic herding instinct. Just guide her to where you want her—it’ll help her feel more secure too.
2.5 days is still super early. Sounds like she just needs time to adjust. Keep up the walks—they’re great for bonding.
Melanie said:
2.5 days is still super early. Sounds like she just needs time to adjust. Keep up the walks—they’re great for bonding.
Thanks, that’s reassuring. She’s already showing small signs of improvement on walks, so I’m hopeful!
Melanie said:
2.5 days is still super early. Sounds like she just needs time to adjust. Keep up the walks—they’re great for bonding.
You’ve got this! She sounds like a smart pup. Just take it slow.