Quote Originally Posted by wolfy-hound
Just because it is timid doesn't mean it was abused. Most dogs that act timid are only not socialized. Probaly kept in the backyard and wasn't exposed to anything.
First thing is be firm and consistant from the first. Don't feel sorry for her/his circumstances. Be in charge and when she/he behaves give your rewards and affections. Don't give her treats when she is acting fearful or bad. Reward good behavior(even if it's just lying around being quiet) and stop bad behavior immediately.
Remember too, no matter how much people say it, the dog doesn't know why you are upset if you come home and something is destroyed. I hear over and over.. "Oh he knew what he did wrong! He slunk around..." Yeah, he slinks around because youa re upset/mad. Not because he thinks "Oh yeah, two hours ago I chewed the couch arm up". There is no connection in his mind, and trying to say there is will do nothing for the relationship between you two.
Don't make it a person in a fur coat. It's a dog. Treat it like a dog, not like a baby. You'll get a great fatihful loving willing to please compainion.
NEVER make excuses for your dog behaving badly or worse, behaving in a agressive manner. When she snaps at someone and you say "Well, she was abandened" you'll only set yourself up for a total failure, and posibly a lawsuit when she progresses to worse behavior.
Any behavior issues that begin should be dealt with IMMEDIATELY, and if you cannot alter the behavior you should consult with a professional trainer.
I hope that you ahve many years ahead of you with your new companion.
Wolfy
Brilliant stuff! Fearful dogs need a strong leader...when you baby them and reassure them for acting fearful, you just reinforce the fear. Be calm and in control and they'll respond wonderfully. :-)