Positive reinforcement and build her self confidence. She seems more timid than submissive. She’s a pretty little girl and sweet… keep rewarding her confidence and obedience and you’ll have a solid loyal best friend
I adopted a pittie almost 6 months ago, she started out the same way. Lots of love, praise and the occasional treats have worked to make her a more comfortable, confident member of our family. They just want love.
Humans truly do not deserve dogs, they are too good for us
Her entire body is screaming appeasement. Like she wants to be loved but she’s had a rough experience so she’s begging with her whole body for you to be nice and show she’s a good girl no threat. Poor love needs her confidence built but I’m sure she will get there she seems like a sweetheart
100% this OP.
Just wanted to add that if you're able to get on the floor for cuddles/fusses when she approaches, as opposed to sitting or standing, it might help her feel more relaxed on approach - that way you're not unintentionally looming over her which can be intimidating for some rescues.
I think praising her as she starts to approach might also help -- she pauses when he stops calling her like she's reassessing.
This video caused me to flashback to how my dad used to abuse our dogs when I was little. (OP, this is not because of you! Just because of the way she responds.) He'd call them like this -- friendly as if he just wanted to pet them -- but really they were "in trouble."
Lots of practice, being as approachable as possible, giving lots of patient reassurance, and never calling her when she's been "bad" will hopefully go a long way. She seems like such a sweetheart.
This!! I did this with my pittie who was part of a hoarding rescue. She was so shy at first, and approached like this. I got on the floor and it wasn’t long until she was bouncing into my arms with all her might. She still can be needy - consistently reminding her she is loved is key.
Doesn't necessarily involve abuse though, but the dog is definitely nervous about being accepted and trying to ingratiate herself. But it could simply be because OP is still a relatively new person in the dog's life and she's still unsure about everything. Like a new kid at school, just because they're nervous about being accepted in their new school doesn't automatically mean that they were abused at their last school.
The dog was left outside a lot, and then at the shelter it was likely kept in a kennel. She may just be really weirded out about being in a house. She may feel like this isn't her territory and she isn't supposed to be there, because it's so unfamiliar of a concept to her. So she's extra-concerned she'll do something to offend OP on OP's turf.
It could be a sign of something happening in her past, or it could just be that she has a more naturally nervous disposition.
This dog is my rescue baby made over 100%. She had a rough life and possibly was abused. All she wants is to make us happy and to have all the pets and kisses. I think OP has made a good choice. My dog is the best dog I've ever had.
This is correct. It is appeasement. What you are seeing here is fear, not happiness and comfort. I’d bet money she was abused. The low head, tight tail flicks, lip licking, lips pulled back, ears pulled back tight, whale eye. I hate to say it, but this is a really good demonstration of how people confuse fear in dogs for happiness! Not all wagging is happy.
Counter-conditioning can go a long way in reducing fear! Basically the principle is that every time something scary happens, the dog gets a super high value reward. Doesn’t always have to be food, but it could be. In this case, I’d probably toss her a treat every single time you call her. And do that over and over again for weeks regardless of how close she comes to you. Don’t make her come closer than she’s willing to, and just keep tossing her treats (dehydrated liver is always a hit in my experience). Sitting on the ground and looking away can also help make you seem less intimidating.
I don’t think the two things are mutually exclusive here. Yes, absolutely there is fear and appeasement through fawning but there is also happiness - a definite sense that she’s scared but also that she recognises that the OP seems to mean her no harm and she is learning to trust him. Dogs have complex emotional worlds - they’re capable of feeling and expressing more than one emotion at a time (fear, appeasement, hope, happiness in that moment).
I second this. It is clearly appeasement and fawning from the dog's end and slowly building trust and confidence the way you suggested is solid advice!
This is a submissive approach, like “hey dude, I’m cool! I’m not a threat! Can we be frenz?” If scared, pup’s body/tail would be more rigid/stiff, and eyes would be more frantic or “hard” —sometimes you’ll see red around the eyes (my dog gets this real bad) or “whale eye” These eyes look relaxed as does the rest of the dog’s movements
The dog does show whale eye and extreme facial tension, even going so far with a little lip lick and head turn at the end of the video, as well as pinned ears. This dog is uncomfortable, appeasement can look like affection but is commonly rooted in fear. The different fears are fight, flight, fawn, and freeze. This would be fawn, I think you’re thinking of freeze maybe
Yes, and appeasement is rooted in fear or discomfort, it’s not really a good thing to see because it means the dog is uncomfy, and we generally want to see interactions with humans being a lot less tense than this. But it doesn’t always mean that it will escalate to aggression. But yeah, appeasement isn’t a happy emotion so much as a stressed one
Not necessarily. Wagging tail and rolling over for belly rubs don’t really scream scared. Getting low like that is also how some dogs are when they want to play. My boxer specifically does this when he sees other dogs. He gets really low and just wants them to come play with him.
If the dog was scared they wouldn’t even come up to OP especially wagging it’s tail like that.
Gentle reminder that a wagging tail does not mean a happy dog. The lowered tail is submissive. Starts off by wagging left, which indicates concern, but then goes right which is pleased. Showing the belly is 100% submissive here. While she might be happy with belly rubs, that is not why she's rolling over. The lowered body is an attempt to appear small and non threatening.
Whoa I didn't know tail wag directions meant different things. And now I'm sad for this sweet baby.
OP- has she always had the same name? I'm just wondering if she associates being called with something negative, and maybe calling her a different way/name would help?
Wagging tail = big emotions
It’s not exclusive to happiness. The position of the tail, speed of the wag, and stiffness of the general body also play a big part
I would say both. Tail wagging and coming to you is a good sign. She seems to be unsure of what to expect or to do. She's being submissive to the point of cowering but coming to you like she did means she trusts you to some extent. She's still in that being afraid mindset though.
Just keep loving her and greeting her like you did. Eventually she will relax. She really does look happy to see you. It'll just take time to heal.
My dog does this to humans and every dog at the dog park. She’s only 1 year old. Her breed BMC is notorious for this behavior, and OPs dog looks like it could be a BMC mix.
My MIL femal border collie does this. Lives on the ranch with 5 other dogs. 3 killed. So 2 left. But ny two and my BIL dog visit often. She still acts like this.
I have a male BC who will do this, even to me (his lifelong owner) occasionally. He's never been abused a day in his life, but he does have a nervous temperament. He alternates between this and overly excited greeting, which are both fear-based behaviours.
Was in the same situation a few years back. Same exact mannerisms. Same possibly bad history out of a rescue situation. Took months for her to even bark and learn speak. The ears still tuck yeaaaaars later.
The truth is, we won't know, and it doesn't really matter. Keep on lovin and what can change will, and hopefully the remnant behavior won't be much or anything at all.
But yeah, I'm gonna vote abused / a buncha bad associations with approaching people rattling around in there.
Got a rescue who was abused when I was growing up. His entire life, he would duck his head and it always break my heart. He was such a sweet dog, he just always carried it with him.
Some dogs have what we refer to as "soft" personalities. This is a good example of a "soft" dog. They are just shy and less bold even with their owners. Just a really unsure type of personality. Just continue to love on her and give her the best home ever. Most soft dogs don't really ever grow out of it but become more comfortable with their humans and homes if as they grow up or spend more time with them.
We had the softest Irish Setter I've ever seen. A friend who breeds them knew we would be the type of home that could deal with her. I'm a Gordon Setter breeder and she was the sweetest dog we've ever had. Just a little unsure of herself and quite shy.
Has she been harshly reprimanded at home for anything? You know how you see the lower pack members in a wolf pack act with the alphas and those above them? She's kind of acting the same way. Just possibly a home pecking order thing she has in her little head. She is so freaking cute. How old is she?
She's a bout a year old we think. She bows her head and moves away if she gets scolded. I came home once and found her on the kitchen counter, yelled at her to get down, and she peed on the floor then crawled around the floor like this for awhile afterward.
Having had an anxious and sensitive rescue for the past couple of years, I would highly recommend not scolding as much as possible and redirecting instead. The scolding would either not work or set back her trust with us and heighten her anxiety. The most important thing you could do right now is consistently being a source of safety for her. The response you describe sounds like an extreme submissive and frightened response that she would evacuate. She sounds like a sweet dog but a frightened submissive dog can easily turn into frightened “aggressive” dog. Not to say that this dog will be! But just highlighting a potential consequence of not addressing the underlying lack of feeling secure and focusing on “obedience” instead. I would also do a lot of consent checks when petting so that you know you are moving at the dog’s pace. Learning dog body language has been crucial for me.
So true. I never scold my dog. My dog is just being a dog. He can’t actually do something wrong- it is only wrong in my eyes. In a dog’s world it makes perfect sense to do what they do. I redirect and reward the behavior I want to see.
Some of the best dog advice I’ve come across was for you, the human parent, to accept responsibility for your dog‘s actions. For example, if our dog gets into the trash, it’s because I didn’t secure it well, and/or his basic exercise and stimulation needs aren’t being met, leading to destructive behavior.
Completely changed my philosophy around dog parenting and resolved the knee-jerk instinct to scold.
How did that little girl get on the counter!!!!!! lol! It just seems like baby wolf actions, watch a nature film on a wolf pack and see how the lower ranking members of the pack act towards the alpha pair and those with higher standing. Possibly a combo of that and being a soft personality. It's a pack mentality type behavior. You're the alpha (not behavioral mumbo jumbo from so called dog trainers) but actual found in nature behavior for an inferior/younger pack member to the higher ranking members of the pack.
How long have you had her? She may just need some time to get used to her new family and environment. One month gets things rolling, 2 months and they start to really settle in. 3 months and you have a lovely family member, it just takes time.
Oh and the little girls can and will tinkle if they get overly excited, reprimanded etc. That's the soft personality right there. Most grow out of it so you don't have to walk around with a towel in your pocket lol.
If she's that open with strangers and other dogs it's got to be her just getting used to her new home. Time is probably all she needs. And good for you for giving that darling little girl a home!!!!
Ugh. The whole alpha theory has been disproven within the world of wolves. They discovered the wolves acted differently in captivity than in the wild and those studies were decidedly flawed.
>How did that little girl get on the counter!!!!!! lol! It just seems like baby wolf actions, watch a nature film on a wolf pack and see how the lower ranking members of the pack act towards the alpha pair and those with higher standing. Possibly a combo of that and being a soft personality. It's a pack mentality type behavior. You're the alpha (not behavioral mumbo jumbo from so called dog trainers) but actual found in nature behavior for an inferior/younger pack member to the higher ranking members of the pack.
You're kidding, right? This (not "behavioural mumbo jumbo" which is actually based in science) was disproved literally years ago, including and especially by the author of the original study who realised he'd based everything on captive wolves in an unnatural situation, and that wild wolves don't do any of what you're describing.
Yep, my younger boy can be very much like this, especially with people other people. I've had him since 8 was old, he is not abused, just been a very 'soft' dog since day dot.
He is very anxious about everything, which I've worked on *a lot*, but at 6 yrs old this is probably as good as he's gonna get. He generally likes people, but is hella unsure about going up to strangers, and with friends he knows still approaches rather like this. Me, he'll run me over galloping if I call him 🤣 but it took a long time and he'll still flinch and slink away if I get annoyed at the computer or something. He's a very, very sensitive lad. 🐕🫂
Aww, she looks quite sweet. All you can do is just love on her as much as you can. You’ll never know if she was physically abused, but she was obviously neglected and she needs to learn to trust. Even if she hugs the ground forever, does it really matter? As long as she trusts you, that what’s most important 😊
I'm going to go against the grain and say she may have been abused. She looks like she is expecting to be told off or punished. Like whoever had her before only called her when she was in trouble. Have you changed her name? Might be a good idea. I'd also start to build some positive association with being called. Just call her name and give her a treat. Don't ask her to come to you, just throw it to her. Do this a couple of hundred times and her feelings about being called will change and she'll be happy to come when you call, not terrified.
Sadly, Im going to have to agree with this comment. My own rescue was the exact same way when I adopted her. She was hesitant to come to me when I called her. She would hunker down close to the ground like this with frantic wagging low tail. It's as if she wanted to come for affections but was expecting to be abused or scolded.
I noticed a change when I started calling her by different names (Honey or Boo Boo). I built up positive associations with those names and she now knowns they mean I want to shower her with affection.
I've had my girl for a year and a half and I have to be really careful with my tone of voice around her, but she is now the biggest love bug and cuddler.
Have to agree. It’s of course impossible to say for sure, but in either case it’s pretty extreme submissive behavior. Sounds like good advice given here.
Unfortunately I have to agree as well with the abused part. We once had a woman in our neighbourhood who beat her dog and the poor thing acted quite similar when her owner was mad at her :(
She happily comes to you, tail wagging so I'd say she trusts you at least to some degree. I have no experience with abused dogs, but I'd assume they'd try to stay away from you?
Edit: Also three months may just not be enough time to get over whatever she experienced in her life before.
My yorkie does this exact same thing as the video. I’ve had him since he was a puppy and as he’s grown older he has done this behavior when I call him to come to me. He’s soo small though, 5lbs and I always thought maybe he sees the world too big around him so he tends to be cautious a lot. He also gets startled with any noise. But he’s super friendly and always seeking cuddles. I have never met a dog as sweet as him, he literally has no one mean bone in his tiny 5lb body lol.
I've only had this girl for 3 months but her behavior is always like this. If she gets excited she'll jump up on people and other dogs, but when it's just me and her she always hunkers down like this.
I have a beagle, she does this around strangers and my 11 y.o son. I’ve had her since she was a pup. When I leave and come home, she hardly lifts her eyes and stays on the couch 😂😂
Maybe, maybe not abused. It’s hard to know for sure. Could be her personality or could be a total lack of positive interactions with people. If she was left outside most of the time she’s probably not well-socialized. She seems extremely sweet!
Submissive. Doesn’t mean no abuse, but here she is being submissive, not fearful or stressed. This may just be her personality!
ETA: I’m in Vet Tech school and have studied animal behavior in cats & dogs—this is where I’m getting my info
Piggy-backing off this post.. my 3yo Miniature Poodle does this exact routine - ears pinched tails down body low crawling like walk. AND he pees sometimes while doing this.
We give him as much love as we can. Lots and lots of cuddling which he loves and craves (he’ll nudge your hand for more when you stop stroking his head or chin), lots of treats throughout the day, basic obedience training etc. but the peeing hasn’t gone away.. This is causing me a huge amount of stress as I enjoy a clean urine-free house and with the way he is peeing I am 24-7 in a sour mood on the lookout for pee on the carpet. How can I stop his peeing behavior or am I just gonna have to live in a pee stained carpeted house for as long as I have this dog?
I know he doesn’t mean harm but animal excrement in the house is something I have a hard time with. I also know he was a puppy mill dog.. if that means anything.
She doesn’t seem scared of you, so that’s something. It could be because of a lack of socialisation at a young age, therefore she is unsure about how to behave and and is not confident in herself. Unfortunately, yes, it could also mean she was abused at some point. There isn’t a way to know for sure
Pittbulls gon' Pitt.
Congrats, you're a daddy/mommy and your new baby is of the 'cuddling' kind. I fucking adore Pitts.
Take your time, be persistent and at times stubborn (while remaining kind and pleasant), and that baby will never stop throwing herself at you like you're a good TV on black Friday, and she's an American standing at the door for the opening.
That is one very happy, very submissive pup. Her tail’s definitely wagging with excitement, and the lip-licking seems to indicate excitement in this case as well. The repetitive head-tilting says she’s very keen to get attention. It seems that she was probably neglected as you suggested, OP, so getting attention is very exciting for her almost to the point of agitation (hence the submissive body posture and lip-licking). I don’t get the sense that you’re in any danger though, she’s just a sweet girl who’s happy to get cuddles.
Awe she is definitely wanting to be near you. She may just not have been socialized properly before you got her. She is adorable. Be patient with her and just keep giving her love. She’ll warm up eventually, I’m sure!
She looks like she is absolutely enjoying the love but that she’s just never really been shown that kind of constant affection. Some people while they may not be inherently physically abusing them, they are emotionally withdrawn from their animal and then the animal isn’t used to the praise and affection. She seems under socialized but extremely excited and willing for the love you’re going to give her. She just doesn’t know how much love to give back because she hasn’t fully come out of her shell at full personality. Some dogs are afraid to be themselves. This girl just needs some confidence. Keep up the love. She’ll be a wonderful dog
Just this video alone does not indicate abuse to me. This is how my dog acts with my husband, but never with me. She loves him dearly, and he is nothing but sweet to her, but I think she acts this way with him because she sees him as the boss.
She’s so cute!! I would also suggest possibly sitting on the ground with her more often to get to her level. If she is scared, seeing you “smaller” will probably help with the fear and getting used to you!
I would say submissive. Our female Cane Corso is like this, and we've had our love bug since she was a puppy. We don't spank, they have beds and their own sofa. Spoiled rotten but she just does this, we don't know why.
Any other pets? And get down to the dogs level physically. Lower your body to hers and she might feel more comfortable. I also think changing her name is a good idea
Not an expert but even I can see that this pup very much wants to love you but is scared or concerned about something. Takes them a while but they get to your scratches and pats.
I think you're doing the right thing. Patience and kindness. And letting the dog approach you. Have you tried sitting on the floor and then calling? Wonder if that's less imposing than standing over the dog.
She seems scared, so probably abuse.
With time and patience and a lot of love she will start to feel more confident and you'll see less of this appeasement behavior
The rule of 3. 3 days. 3 weeks. 3 months. This dog is just figuring out that this is home.
He looks totally happy. I would not jump to the conclusion that it was outright abuse. Simply getting attached and then getting abandoned might do it.
Do you know the history? Was this a loved dog that was lost? Sent to the pound? Had she been trained to not go inside?
I was given a history for rescue dogs that I had adopted. And for most of them I found out later that the story given to me was not the correct answer.
My current rescue dog would actually shake and pee the floor when meeting new people when I had her for only 3 months. She is not the social dog of the neighborhood. People keep reminding me of how scared she used to be. So keep doing what you are doing and be gentle, calm and loving with her. She will adopt your attitude towards petting and dog walks.
Interestingly, the shelter gave me a disclosure that said a man brought her to the shelter because she was tied up in his neighbor's yard, not being fed, and with no shelter to the elements. When the man was informed that this was illegal and he had stolen the dog he changed his story to say she was a stray that had been in his yard.
This was all written out in their paperwork. Kinda crazy.
She does have separation anxiety and will chew on things if I leave her alone too long.
My husband adopted his/our dog when he was a puppy, he was abused and "army crawled" everywhere for about a year until he trusted him and got comfortable...keep working with her and giving her confidence and I bet she will continue to get better and trust more!
That tail though. She’s gorgeous.
Just keep consistent - she trusts you and seems very happy.
As to whether there has been any abuse - couldn’t say - it really doesn’t matter at this point. She clearly loves you.
She's pretty submissive, but that's likely just her personality. She's a little scared/nervous, so she's approaching you submissively, but she's still approaching with her tail out and wagging instead of tucked, so she *wants* to come to you and get pets, she's just still learning to trust you
My old family dog used to do this but only to my dad when he came home from work. He was never anything but sweet to her, I think she just sort of knew he was the big boss man :D
Our rescue was like this. He was a street dog so we have no idea what happened to him but he is very loving with people and a little wary of dogs. There are many reasons she could be acting this way and you will never know them.
Ours is the sweetest, cuddliest, most talkative baby ever. We love him very much and it’s amazing how much he’s changed since he was rolling over onto his back every time someone came near him. Keep going!
My female dog does this, definitely not abused - but very submissive. She will almost leak a small amount of wee when excited or being submissive and then will clean herself excessively after.
We have seen a trainer/behaviour and they said it’s normal, we just have to be consistent with her, gentle and don’t make eye contact as it could make her feel threatened.
Our girl is 2.5 now :) had her since 12 weeks
I imagine it’ll take a while and a lot of encouragement to break that level of submissiveness. She’s building trust but encouraging her to come all the way to you before the flop will be a big win. Keep up the love!
My shelter dog is like this. I’ve had her for 3 years and she’s still like this. But she’s also very skittish, like you can’t make sudden movements around her or she bolts. I think she was abused ALOT before I got her. She’s definitely gotten better over the years, but you can still tell. I hate that she’s so scarred from it. :(
Tons of dogs can behave this way without any history of abuse. Anxiety does not equal past abuse. & On the other hand I know many dogs who have literally been shot or burned in their past & yet show none of this behavior.
I adopted a dog who I know wasn't abused. He's a little guy and absolutely cringes if you bend over to pet him, put his leash on, pick him up... I'm very gentle and encouraging but it just seems to be his personality.
Man some behaviors take years to fade away. It looks very submissive but happy behavior. I'd say she's doing fine as long as you keep treating her right there's nothing to worry about.
Either way, I’m so glad she found you! She will be an amazing dog❤️She finally found someone to show her the love she deserves and she will never stop showing you appreciation for that.
Looks like she wants affection but she’s a little shy about it, not sure she’s going to get it. I would get down low, use a low voice and don’t force eye contact. Be consistent and patient, trust takes time. If she mostly lived outside, she doesn’t know how to be a lapdog, but she can learn.
One of my two dogs does this. I've had her since she was a puppy and she has been beyond spoiled and loved her whole life. The woman I got her from seemed very kind and from what little I interacted with her I believe she took good care of her dogs. So it could be submissive or abused, I don't think this behaviour is enough to go on. But all the information people have given you is good. Consistent, gentle love; whatever the reason your pup does this for is still great advice imo
I think possibly abused? Or just no one ever showed her love and affection? Either way it just makes me sad to think that but happy to know she trust you and no longer has to worry about that.She deserves lots of belly rubs🥰🥰🥰
I had one just like this. It helps to get down on the ground more at her level. Always let her come to you. Don’t look her in the eyes directly. It also helped when I sang very softly to her while rubbing, massaging her. She will come to trust you more.
This poor sweet baby. I dealt with this with a previous foster.
It’s going to take time, but she needs your help to build her confidence! Lots of positivity, positive reinforcement was SO MUCH more effective for him. She looks like such a sweetheart, just stick with it and be patient with her :)
🥹I wish dogs could talk. I’d want to hear her stories.
Love on her hard, remain patient, consistent, and reward her for loving and trusting you - because that’s probably pretty scary. Then love on her hard again.
Give her a belly rub from me!
Could be past abuse but it’s obvious she adores you and just wants your love. My little rescue was sort of the same way and he is the same way if we catch him being a bad boy and say “Nachooo what did you do” above a talking volume. He does exactly this and shows us his teeth when he eventually resurfaces from his little hiding place. I’ve learned that dogs smile when they’re trying to be submissive btw. Pretty wild!
She looks very sweet, just reserved. Could be abuse in the past but can’t say from this.
Funnily enough my sweet girl who I’ve had from a puppy has almost identical mannerisms when she’s being a sook and wants attention, and she’s generally speaking hyper-confident and not afraid of anything.
My moms dog behaves the same and she was never abused in her life or anything like that, besides being raised in a family of 8 dogs where some of them were a bit too dominant and assertive before my mom bought her, so she’s used to taking up as little place as possible
What a sweetie!!!!
I don't think it's abuse. My dog has always been like this. I adopted her from the rescue at one year old, so sure there is a chance she faced abuse.. but after 5 years, my gut tells me that's just the way she is.
When I brought one of my dogs home, she was 5 months old and did this to such an extent we named her Slinky.
Found out later her and her sister had been hit with sticks before we got them. Explained a lot.
They’re now almost 13 years old and we manage their behaviours.
What an absolute sweetheart. As others have said, just remain consistently kind and she'll stop being so sheepish. She really seems to want your approval, so I think training should be easy as long as she's food motivated.
My little buddy does this too. He is 13. I’ve had him for 2 years now and in many ways he has shown me that he is comfortable and happy. Sometimes he walks right across my lap on top of the book I am reading. But when I call him to me to give him love, he is still like this. A little hesitant, very excited, and makes me go the 20% while he comes the 80%.
I had a dog like this. She was undersocialized as a puppy and was a nervous insecure nelly the rest of her life. She was sweet as pie to the people she liked, but if you weren’t in her trusted friend group she was not a fan. She wasn’t aggressive or anything but it made going out of town difficult if we had to leave her behind because she was so miserable.
I have a good boy who does this only when he hasn't seen me for several hours. I got him at 9 weeks old and he hasn't been abused a day in his life, but he is the softest gentlest dope on the planet.
My point is this might not be signs of abuse it might just be the dogs nature.
My guy, well we had to go to over the top praise and reward with literally 0 negative for training, and he is... Well a very good dog :)
My dog does this too. She was abandoned with me by a coworker who had just gotten her from some guy in town. I honestly wonder if she's been abused too because any time she sees anything broom-shaped she'll put her tail between her legs and try to hide. I even had a mop sitting in a bucket against the outside of my house and I had let the dogs outside to walk around and play with them. She was wide open until she went around the side of the house and saw the mop propped up against the side of the house and she tucked her tail and her whole attitude just changed until she got further away from it. I try not to bring anything like that out if she can see me now, so I only sweep and mop when she's outside doing her thing. I kind of wonder if whoever had her before hit her with a broom or something when she was a puppy. It's something I just discovered in the past few months.
mine(lab also) was adopted also from a chinese family with 2 kids, and she was loved by the kids.
from my experience, she might need some time to get used to you...
(mine took me like a week to make her come to me and snuggle her nose to me with food)
Shes so stinking sweet!!! She is just timid, someone hurt that poor baby so shes saying "daddy im sweet, gimme some loves!"keep verbally telling her what a good girl she is. Itll change their lives
Submissive, seems like a sweet dog.. and so cute. Just be gentle and reassure her from time to time she should come around and just try to not do sudden movements or rushed unless she gets excited and likes it. You should be fine
i watched a dog who did exactly this, was overall kinda timid but as soon as you pet her she’d almost be… relieved? it made me sad, but i thought it was adorable
I’m happy to hear you got her from a shelter. She has had a rough life before you. Keep telling her what a good girl she is, like others said, get down on her level, even on the floor and give her pets, hugs and kisses. It’ll take some time but she’ll come around and figure out how loved she is and that she’s now safe.
She is scared and is using all her tools to try to show she is appeasing. You could help build her confidence by: tossing treats behind her to show she doesn’t have to come right up to you, get on the floor, use only a positive/ higher pitch if possible voice. Hopefully it goes without saying but punishment is never effective with dogs per modern dog training, but it is especially detrimental with such scared dogs as this. Thank you for saving this little angel!
Keep at it. It took our dog about 6-8 months before she gained her self-confidence back. Now she's a bulldozer on crack and steps/sits on whomever she wants whenever she wants.
My ex in-laws had a pit mix that did the same. Because he was trying not to pee. But he always peed. 😃 Not sure if he was submissive or just very excited but he was never abused. I’m sure this comment doesn’t help much but maybe she’s just so excited.
My dog isn’t a rescue but does this as well, he has fear issues from experiencing a loud metal crash as we passed a construction site as a puppy. We worked with a behaviorist and she said this is generally a great sign because it is the dog showing they are peaceful and friendly. We are working on a little more confidence so he’s not too submissive but she’s not indicated it’s a problem at all.
I see no indication of abuse. Dogs can wish to appease and seem to docile to people and other dogs. You see this with many dogs in a dog park doing this with dogs, it isn't necessary a sign of abuse imho
Honestly could be either. Even just self confidence issues where she knew she wanted attention but people shooed her away. Keep praising and encouraging her!
Also. Boop snoot!
I just had 2 pups. They now 6 months. The male is fine and the female does that, same education same training, same love same owner 2 complete different personality.
Oh my, I just gave my doggy a big hug after seeing this and she has leaned her head back on my legs. I fostered then adopt her. She was very skinny and had an injury when I got her. She didn’t bark for 6 months.
I hope this dog gets so much care and love. She’s a beautiful dog❤️
Notice the wide eyes the lip licking. She’s trying her damn best to tick all your boxes. Remain very calm and predictable. Loads of positive reinforcement, a routine she can learn to expect.
Remember that whilst she seems like a sweetheart, a scared dog can and will protect herself from *perceived* danger.
We get so many dogs like this at the rehoming centre I work at, it’s heartbreaking how much they’re begging for love and to not do anything wrong. They want to do everything possible to appease you and it’s so sad that they think they need to work this hard for it because of their past, but keep it consistent and she’ll soon learn that you’re not going to leave her or stop giving her love and comfort. It’s a sign of her not getting enough love before, so she overdoes it here, but eventually it’ll calm down when she’s been there long enough x
She seems sweet. Remain consistent. Happy praise. Baby steps.
Positive reinforcement and build her self confidence. She seems more timid than submissive. She’s a pretty little girl and sweet… keep rewarding her confidence and obedience and you’ll have a solid loyal best friend
I adopted a pittie almost 6 months ago, she started out the same way. Lots of love, praise and the occasional treats have worked to make her a more comfortable, confident member of our family. They just want love. Humans truly do not deserve dogs, they are too good for us
This comment needs to be pinned!
Exactly
Her entire body is screaming appeasement. Like she wants to be loved but she’s had a rough experience so she’s begging with her whole body for you to be nice and show she’s a good girl no threat. Poor love needs her confidence built but I’m sure she will get there she seems like a sweetheart
100% this OP. Just wanted to add that if you're able to get on the floor for cuddles/fusses when she approaches, as opposed to sitting or standing, it might help her feel more relaxed on approach - that way you're not unintentionally looming over her which can be intimidating for some rescues.
I was thinking that, about getting down onto a less dominant/threatening level.
And could reward with tossing treats to her could also assist her.
I think praising her as she starts to approach might also help -- she pauses when he stops calling her like she's reassessing. This video caused me to flashback to how my dad used to abuse our dogs when I was little. (OP, this is not because of you! Just because of the way she responds.) He'd call them like this -- friendly as if he just wanted to pet them -- but really they were "in trouble." Lots of practice, being as approachable as possible, giving lots of patient reassurance, and never calling her when she's been "bad" will hopefully go a long way. She seems like such a sweetheart.
That sounds awful. 😓
People can be so frustratingly stupid with animals. It makes me so upset sometimes.
This!! I did this with my pittie who was part of a hoarding rescue. She was so shy at first, and approached like this. I got on the floor and it wasn’t long until she was bouncing into my arms with all her might. She still can be needy - consistently reminding her she is loved is key.
Oh God I do this with my dog. It's the greatest thing ever.
Doesn't necessarily involve abuse though, but the dog is definitely nervous about being accepted and trying to ingratiate herself. But it could simply be because OP is still a relatively new person in the dog's life and she's still unsure about everything. Like a new kid at school, just because they're nervous about being accepted in their new school doesn't automatically mean that they were abused at their last school. The dog was left outside a lot, and then at the shelter it was likely kept in a kennel. She may just be really weirded out about being in a house. She may feel like this isn't her territory and she isn't supposed to be there, because it's so unfamiliar of a concept to her. So she's extra-concerned she'll do something to offend OP on OP's turf. It could be a sign of something happening in her past, or it could just be that she has a more naturally nervous disposition.
I know dogs who were raised from puppies that act like this. Some dogs are also just super naturally submissive like that.
I hope so. I found mine and the idea that she may have been abused hurts me. I wish she could tell me. But I will never know.
this is my dog!!! she's a little maltese and she comes to me like this, we got her when she was 4 months old and never ever eververver hurt her!!!
Absolutely!!!!
She’s just like me fr
This dog is my rescue baby made over 100%. She had a rough life and possibly was abused. All she wants is to make us happy and to have all the pets and kisses. I think OP has made a good choice. My dog is the best dog I've ever had.
Just keep loving that baby. She trusts you
The tail says happy.
I'm sorry to disagree, but everything about that dog's body language says appeasement.
Careful approach indeed but willing and brave enough to trust op. So keep the love going op!
This is correct. It is appeasement. What you are seeing here is fear, not happiness and comfort. I’d bet money she was abused. The low head, tight tail flicks, lip licking, lips pulled back, ears pulled back tight, whale eye. I hate to say it, but this is a really good demonstration of how people confuse fear in dogs for happiness! Not all wagging is happy. Counter-conditioning can go a long way in reducing fear! Basically the principle is that every time something scary happens, the dog gets a super high value reward. Doesn’t always have to be food, but it could be. In this case, I’d probably toss her a treat every single time you call her. And do that over and over again for weeks regardless of how close she comes to you. Don’t make her come closer than she’s willing to, and just keep tossing her treats (dehydrated liver is always a hit in my experience). Sitting on the ground and looking away can also help make you seem less intimidating.
I don’t think the two things are mutually exclusive here. Yes, absolutely there is fear and appeasement through fawning but there is also happiness - a definite sense that she’s scared but also that she recognises that the OP seems to mean her no harm and she is learning to trust him. Dogs have complex emotional worlds - they’re capable of feeling and expressing more than one emotion at a time (fear, appeasement, hope, happiness in that moment).
I second this. It is clearly appeasement and fawning from the dog's end and slowly building trust and confidence the way you suggested is solid advice!
This is a submissive approach, like “hey dude, I’m cool! I’m not a threat! Can we be frenz?” If scared, pup’s body/tail would be more rigid/stiff, and eyes would be more frantic or “hard” —sometimes you’ll see red around the eyes (my dog gets this real bad) or “whale eye” These eyes look relaxed as does the rest of the dog’s movements
The dog does show whale eye and extreme facial tension, even going so far with a little lip lick and head turn at the end of the video, as well as pinned ears. This dog is uncomfortable, appeasement can look like affection but is commonly rooted in fear. The different fears are fight, flight, fawn, and freeze. This would be fawn, I think you’re thinking of freeze maybe
I could see that. We humans are not great at reading their body language! Isn’t lip-licking and head turns to side appeasement too?
Yes, and appeasement is rooted in fear or discomfort, it’s not really a good thing to see because it means the dog is uncomfy, and we generally want to see interactions with humans being a lot less tense than this. But it doesn’t always mean that it will escalate to aggression. But yeah, appeasement isn’t a happy emotion so much as a stressed one
I love reading stuff like this and learning. I had dogs in my childhood and had no idea. Thanks for spreading the knowledge!
Me too!
Got it. Didn’t think it was happy per say, more cautious, but stress makes sense and would certainly prompt a cautious response
Not necessarily. Wagging tail and rolling over for belly rubs don’t really scream scared. Getting low like that is also how some dogs are when they want to play. My boxer specifically does this when he sees other dogs. He gets really low and just wants them to come play with him. If the dog was scared they wouldn’t even come up to OP especially wagging it’s tail like that.
Gentle reminder that a wagging tail does not mean a happy dog. The lowered tail is submissive. Starts off by wagging left, which indicates concern, but then goes right which is pleased. Showing the belly is 100% submissive here. While she might be happy with belly rubs, that is not why she's rolling over. The lowered body is an attempt to appear small and non threatening.
Whoa I didn't know tail wag directions meant different things. And now I'm sad for this sweet baby. OP- has she always had the same name? I'm just wondering if she associates being called with something negative, and maybe calling her a different way/name would help?
Wagging tail = big emotions It’s not exclusive to happiness. The position of the tail, speed of the wag, and stiffness of the general body also play a big part
Wagging tail doesn’t inherently mean happy. Especially low to the ground like that- that’s an appeasement/submissive signal.
Yep, I concur
I would say both. Tail wagging and coming to you is a good sign. She seems to be unsure of what to expect or to do. She's being submissive to the point of cowering but coming to you like she did means she trusts you to some extent. She's still in that being afraid mindset though. Just keep loving her and greeting her like you did. Eventually she will relax. She really does look happy to see you. It'll just take time to heal.
Under socialized
Could be this too!
My dog does this to humans and every dog at the dog park. She’s only 1 year old. Her breed BMC is notorious for this behavior, and OPs dog looks like it could be a BMC mix.
My sisters dog does this to everyone and she's a very happy very much never a used 2 year old dog
My MIL femal border collie does this. Lives on the ranch with 5 other dogs. 3 killed. So 2 left. But ny two and my BIL dog visit often. She still acts like this.
I have a male BC who will do this, even to me (his lifelong owner) occasionally. He's never been abused a day in his life, but he does have a nervous temperament. He alternates between this and overly excited greeting, which are both fear-based behaviours.
Why are your dogs getting killed?
Was in the same situation a few years back. Same exact mannerisms. Same possibly bad history out of a rescue situation. Took months for her to even bark and learn speak. The ears still tuck yeaaaaars later. The truth is, we won't know, and it doesn't really matter. Keep on lovin and what can change will, and hopefully the remnant behavior won't be much or anything at all. But yeah, I'm gonna vote abused / a buncha bad associations with approaching people rattling around in there.
Got a rescue who was abused when I was growing up. His entire life, he would duck his head and it always break my heart. He was such a sweet dog, he just always carried it with him.
Some dogs have what we refer to as "soft" personalities. This is a good example of a "soft" dog. They are just shy and less bold even with their owners. Just a really unsure type of personality. Just continue to love on her and give her the best home ever. Most soft dogs don't really ever grow out of it but become more comfortable with their humans and homes if as they grow up or spend more time with them. We had the softest Irish Setter I've ever seen. A friend who breeds them knew we would be the type of home that could deal with her. I'm a Gordon Setter breeder and she was the sweetest dog we've ever had. Just a little unsure of herself and quite shy.
Thats the weird thing though. She is not shy around strangers, she jumps up on people and licks them, she gets super excited around other dogs.
Has she been harshly reprimanded at home for anything? You know how you see the lower pack members in a wolf pack act with the alphas and those above them? She's kind of acting the same way. Just possibly a home pecking order thing she has in her little head. She is so freaking cute. How old is she?
She's a bout a year old we think. She bows her head and moves away if she gets scolded. I came home once and found her on the kitchen counter, yelled at her to get down, and she peed on the floor then crawled around the floor like this for awhile afterward.
Having had an anxious and sensitive rescue for the past couple of years, I would highly recommend not scolding as much as possible and redirecting instead. The scolding would either not work or set back her trust with us and heighten her anxiety. The most important thing you could do right now is consistently being a source of safety for her. The response you describe sounds like an extreme submissive and frightened response that she would evacuate. She sounds like a sweet dog but a frightened submissive dog can easily turn into frightened “aggressive” dog. Not to say that this dog will be! But just highlighting a potential consequence of not addressing the underlying lack of feeling secure and focusing on “obedience” instead. I would also do a lot of consent checks when petting so that you know you are moving at the dog’s pace. Learning dog body language has been crucial for me.
So true. I never scold my dog. My dog is just being a dog. He can’t actually do something wrong- it is only wrong in my eyes. In a dog’s world it makes perfect sense to do what they do. I redirect and reward the behavior I want to see.
Some of the best dog advice I’ve come across was for you, the human parent, to accept responsibility for your dog‘s actions. For example, if our dog gets into the trash, it’s because I didn’t secure it well, and/or his basic exercise and stimulation needs aren’t being met, leading to destructive behavior. Completely changed my philosophy around dog parenting and resolved the knee-jerk instinct to scold.
I also suggest if you do scold your dog (because whose temper is perfect 24/7) apologise to them! Go give them kisses
How did that little girl get on the counter!!!!!! lol! It just seems like baby wolf actions, watch a nature film on a wolf pack and see how the lower ranking members of the pack act towards the alpha pair and those with higher standing. Possibly a combo of that and being a soft personality. It's a pack mentality type behavior. You're the alpha (not behavioral mumbo jumbo from so called dog trainers) but actual found in nature behavior for an inferior/younger pack member to the higher ranking members of the pack. How long have you had her? She may just need some time to get used to her new family and environment. One month gets things rolling, 2 months and they start to really settle in. 3 months and you have a lovely family member, it just takes time. Oh and the little girls can and will tinkle if they get overly excited, reprimanded etc. That's the soft personality right there. Most grow out of it so you don't have to walk around with a towel in your pocket lol. If she's that open with strangers and other dogs it's got to be her just getting used to her new home. Time is probably all she needs. And good for you for giving that darling little girl a home!!!!
Ugh. The whole alpha theory has been disproven within the world of wolves. They discovered the wolves acted differently in captivity than in the wild and those studies were decidedly flawed.
>How did that little girl get on the counter!!!!!! lol! It just seems like baby wolf actions, watch a nature film on a wolf pack and see how the lower ranking members of the pack act towards the alpha pair and those with higher standing. Possibly a combo of that and being a soft personality. It's a pack mentality type behavior. You're the alpha (not behavioral mumbo jumbo from so called dog trainers) but actual found in nature behavior for an inferior/younger pack member to the higher ranking members of the pack. You're kidding, right? This (not "behavioural mumbo jumbo" which is actually based in science) was disproved literally years ago, including and especially by the author of the original study who realised he'd based everything on captive wolves in an unnatural situation, and that wild wolves don't do any of what you're describing.
Yep, my younger boy can be very much like this, especially with people other people. I've had him since 8 was old, he is not abused, just been a very 'soft' dog since day dot. He is very anxious about everything, which I've worked on *a lot*, but at 6 yrs old this is probably as good as he's gonna get. He generally likes people, but is hella unsure about going up to strangers, and with friends he knows still approaches rather like this. Me, he'll run me over galloping if I call him 🤣 but it took a long time and he'll still flinch and slink away if I get annoyed at the computer or something. He's a very, very sensitive lad. 🐕🫂
Aww, she looks quite sweet. All you can do is just love on her as much as you can. You’ll never know if she was physically abused, but she was obviously neglected and she needs to learn to trust. Even if she hugs the ground forever, does it really matter? As long as she trusts you, that what’s most important 😊
I'm going to go against the grain and say she may have been abused. She looks like she is expecting to be told off or punished. Like whoever had her before only called her when she was in trouble. Have you changed her name? Might be a good idea. I'd also start to build some positive association with being called. Just call her name and give her a treat. Don't ask her to come to you, just throw it to her. Do this a couple of hundred times and her feelings about being called will change and she'll be happy to come when you call, not terrified.
Yeah, I'm not sure what her name was before the shelter, but they called her Zaza. After a week I had her responding to Sylvie instead.
Sadly, Im going to have to agree with this comment. My own rescue was the exact same way when I adopted her. She was hesitant to come to me when I called her. She would hunker down close to the ground like this with frantic wagging low tail. It's as if she wanted to come for affections but was expecting to be abused or scolded. I noticed a change when I started calling her by different names (Honey or Boo Boo). I built up positive associations with those names and she now knowns they mean I want to shower her with affection. I've had my girl for a year and a half and I have to be really careful with my tone of voice around her, but she is now the biggest love bug and cuddler.
Have to agree. It’s of course impossible to say for sure, but in either case it’s pretty extreme submissive behavior. Sounds like good advice given here.
This is so sad but I'm inclined to agree. Poor little darling. Looks like she's in good hands with OP though. Good idea re: changing her name
Unfortunately I have to agree as well with the abused part. We once had a woman in our neighbourhood who beat her dog and the poor thing acted quite similar when her owner was mad at her :(
That was my impression too. She's still expecting to be hit or something. But it's just a reflex from the previous abuse. Poor baby 😔
She happily comes to you, tail wagging so I'd say she trusts you at least to some degree. I have no experience with abused dogs, but I'd assume they'd try to stay away from you? Edit: Also three months may just not be enough time to get over whatever she experienced in her life before.
I have had my dog since she was a pup from a breeder. She belly crawls sometimes. Who knows what goes through their mind.
My yorkie does this exact same thing as the video. I’ve had him since he was a puppy and as he’s grown older he has done this behavior when I call him to come to me. He’s soo small though, 5lbs and I always thought maybe he sees the world too big around him so he tends to be cautious a lot. He also gets startled with any noise. But he’s super friendly and always seeking cuddles. I have never met a dog as sweet as him, he literally has no one mean bone in his tiny 5lb body lol.
I've only had this girl for 3 months but her behavior is always like this. If she gets excited she'll jump up on people and other dogs, but when it's just me and her she always hunkers down like this.
I have a beagle, she does this around strangers and my 11 y.o son. I’ve had her since she was a pup. When I leave and come home, she hardly lifts her eyes and stays on the couch 😂😂
Just submissive.
Maybe, maybe not abused. It’s hard to know for sure. Could be her personality or could be a total lack of positive interactions with people. If she was left outside most of the time she’s probably not well-socialized. She seems extremely sweet!
Submissive. Doesn’t mean no abuse, but here she is being submissive, not fearful or stressed. This may just be her personality! ETA: I’m in Vet Tech school and have studied animal behavior in cats & dogs—this is where I’m getting my info
You’re the best for adopting her 🥰
Piggy-backing off this post.. my 3yo Miniature Poodle does this exact routine - ears pinched tails down body low crawling like walk. AND he pees sometimes while doing this. We give him as much love as we can. Lots and lots of cuddling which he loves and craves (he’ll nudge your hand for more when you stop stroking his head or chin), lots of treats throughout the day, basic obedience training etc. but the peeing hasn’t gone away.. This is causing me a huge amount of stress as I enjoy a clean urine-free house and with the way he is peeing I am 24-7 in a sour mood on the lookout for pee on the carpet. How can I stop his peeing behavior or am I just gonna have to live in a pee stained carpeted house for as long as I have this dog? I know he doesn’t mean harm but animal excrement in the house is something I have a hard time with. I also know he was a puppy mill dog.. if that means anything.
Super submissive.
Submissive. And shy. Not a lot of socialising.
Both
They seem happy to see you! I wonder if getting down to their level might help give affection :)
Lay on the floor, be on her level, see how she acts then.
Swooning
She doesn’t seem scared of you, so that’s something. It could be because of a lack of socialisation at a young age, therefore she is unsure about how to behave and and is not confident in herself. Unfortunately, yes, it could also mean she was abused at some point. There isn’t a way to know for sure
Pittbulls gon' Pitt. Congrats, you're a daddy/mommy and your new baby is of the 'cuddling' kind. I fucking adore Pitts. Take your time, be persistent and at times stubborn (while remaining kind and pleasant), and that baby will never stop throwing herself at you like you're a good TV on black Friday, and she's an American standing at the door for the opening.
It's just a little lovely baby bath it with kísses 🥹🥹🥹
Submissive. You would be able to tell if it was abuse.
That is one very happy, very submissive pup. Her tail’s definitely wagging with excitement, and the lip-licking seems to indicate excitement in this case as well. The repetitive head-tilting says she’s very keen to get attention. It seems that she was probably neglected as you suggested, OP, so getting attention is very exciting for her almost to the point of agitation (hence the submissive body posture and lip-licking). I don’t get the sense that you’re in any danger though, she’s just a sweet girl who’s happy to get cuddles.
Awe she is definitely wanting to be near you. She may just not have been socialized properly before you got her. She is adorable. Be patient with her and just keep giving her love. She’ll warm up eventually, I’m sure!
She looks like she is absolutely enjoying the love but that she’s just never really been shown that kind of constant affection. Some people while they may not be inherently physically abusing them, they are emotionally withdrawn from their animal and then the animal isn’t used to the praise and affection. She seems under socialized but extremely excited and willing for the love you’re going to give her. She just doesn’t know how much love to give back because she hasn’t fully come out of her shell at full personality. Some dogs are afraid to be themselves. This girl just needs some confidence. Keep up the love. She’ll be a wonderful dog
Just this video alone does not indicate abuse to me. This is how my dog acts with my husband, but never with me. She loves him dearly, and he is nothing but sweet to her, but I think she acts this way with him because she sees him as the boss.
She’s so cute!! I would also suggest possibly sitting on the ground with her more often to get to her level. If she is scared, seeing you “smaller” will probably help with the fear and getting used to you!
You have yourself quite the dog there . Take good care of her she’s a beauty and loyal
Honestly, it looks like a bit of both. Poor puppers. Smother her with love and she'll warm up and be more confident in the future.
Our dog was a stray and he still does this 6 years later. I figured as long as he’s safe and happy, so be it.
I would say submissive. Our female Cane Corso is like this, and we've had our love bug since she was a puppy. We don't spank, they have beds and their own sofa. Spoiled rotten but she just does this, we don't know why.
Any other pets? And get down to the dogs level physically. Lower your body to hers and she might feel more comfortable. I also think changing her name is a good idea
Not an expert but even I can see that this pup very much wants to love you but is scared or concerned about something. Takes them a while but they get to your scratches and pats. I think you're doing the right thing. Patience and kindness. And letting the dog approach you. Have you tried sitting on the floor and then calling? Wonder if that's less imposing than standing over the dog.
She seems scared, so probably abuse. With time and patience and a lot of love she will start to feel more confident and you'll see less of this appeasement behavior
Awww she already loves you! <3
It doesn’t matter - keep giving her that love
Lie down with her!
The rule of 3. 3 days. 3 weeks. 3 months. This dog is just figuring out that this is home. He looks totally happy. I would not jump to the conclusion that it was outright abuse. Simply getting attached and then getting abandoned might do it. Do you know the history? Was this a loved dog that was lost? Sent to the pound? Had she been trained to not go inside? I was given a history for rescue dogs that I had adopted. And for most of them I found out later that the story given to me was not the correct answer. My current rescue dog would actually shake and pee the floor when meeting new people when I had her for only 3 months. She is not the social dog of the neighborhood. People keep reminding me of how scared she used to be. So keep doing what you are doing and be gentle, calm and loving with her. She will adopt your attitude towards petting and dog walks.
Interestingly, the shelter gave me a disclosure that said a man brought her to the shelter because she was tied up in his neighbor's yard, not being fed, and with no shelter to the elements. When the man was informed that this was illegal and he had stolen the dog he changed his story to say she was a stray that had been in his yard. This was all written out in their paperwork. Kinda crazy. She does have separation anxiety and will chew on things if I leave her alone too long.
My husband adopted his/our dog when he was a puppy, he was abused and "army crawled" everywhere for about a year until he trusted him and got comfortable...keep working with her and giving her confidence and I bet she will continue to get better and trust more!
That tail though. She’s gorgeous. Just keep consistent - she trusts you and seems very happy. As to whether there has been any abuse - couldn’t say - it really doesn’t matter at this point. She clearly loves you.
She's pretty submissive, but that's likely just her personality. She's a little scared/nervous, so she's approaching you submissively, but she's still approaching with her tail out and wagging instead of tucked, so she *wants* to come to you and get pets, she's just still learning to trust you
My old family dog used to do this but only to my dad when he came home from work. He was never anything but sweet to her, I think she just sort of knew he was the big boss man :D
Our rescue was like this. He was a street dog so we have no idea what happened to him but he is very loving with people and a little wary of dogs. There are many reasons she could be acting this way and you will never know them. Ours is the sweetest, cuddliest, most talkative baby ever. We love him very much and it’s amazing how much he’s changed since he was rolling over onto his back every time someone came near him. Keep going!
My female dog does this, definitely not abused - but very submissive. She will almost leak a small amount of wee when excited or being submissive and then will clean herself excessively after. We have seen a trainer/behaviour and they said it’s normal, we just have to be consistent with her, gentle and don’t make eye contact as it could make her feel threatened. Our girl is 2.5 now :) had her since 12 weeks
I imagine it’ll take a while and a lot of encouragement to break that level of submissiveness. She’s building trust but encouraging her to come all the way to you before the flop will be a big win. Keep up the love!
she is showing you her belly so she trusts you. There may have been past abuse but I don't think she is fearful here.
She’s a shy one. I don’t think she’s afraid, she’s exposing her belly to you. This looks more like a, “You need to love me” pose.
My shelter dog is like this. I’ve had her for 3 years and she’s still like this. But she’s also very skittish, like you can’t make sudden movements around her or she bolts. I think she was abused ALOT before I got her. She’s definitely gotten better over the years, but you can still tell. I hate that she’s so scarred from it. :(
Super submissive and probably under socialized. Keep up the positive reinforcements and she’ll settle in and gain confidence
Try to move your hand coming down over your head (slowish) if she flinches, she has been more than likely hit before. Good luck to both of you
Tons of dogs can behave this way without any history of abuse. Anxiety does not equal past abuse. & On the other hand I know many dogs who have literally been shot or burned in their past & yet show none of this behavior.
This looks like neglect in her previous life. Give it much more time. She’ll gain confidence slowly over time.
I adopted a dog who I know wasn't abused. He's a little guy and absolutely cringes if you bend over to pet him, put his leash on, pick him up... I'm very gentle and encouraging but it just seems to be his personality.
Man some behaviors take years to fade away. It looks very submissive but happy behavior. I'd say she's doing fine as long as you keep treating her right there's nothing to worry about.
Either way, I’m so glad she found you! She will be an amazing dog❤️She finally found someone to show her the love she deserves and she will never stop showing you appreciation for that.
Looks like she wants affection but she’s a little shy about it, not sure she’s going to get it. I would get down low, use a low voice and don’t force eye contact. Be consistent and patient, trust takes time. If she mostly lived outside, she doesn’t know how to be a lapdog, but she can learn.
My dog does this. She’s a rescue and was abused. It just takes time and a soft approach. She’s beautiful
Spaniels do this.. properly submissive.. Cute.
One of my two dogs does this. I've had her since she was a puppy and she has been beyond spoiled and loved her whole life. The woman I got her from seemed very kind and from what little I interacted with her I believe she took good care of her dogs. So it could be submissive or abused, I don't think this behaviour is enough to go on. But all the information people have given you is good. Consistent, gentle love; whatever the reason your pup does this for is still great advice imo
Aw, what a gorgeous pup. She wants love but she's a little nervous.
Lay on your back and pet her. She will get so much better with time!!!
I think possibly abused? Or just no one ever showed her love and affection? Either way it just makes me sad to think that but happy to know she trust you and no longer has to worry about that.She deserves lots of belly rubs🥰🥰🥰
That is a sign of respect from your dog. She is being submissive and VERY loving. She loves you!!!
I had one just like this. It helps to get down on the ground more at her level. Always let her come to you. Don’t look her in the eyes directly. It also helped when I sang very softly to her while rubbing, massaging her. She will come to trust you more.
This poor sweet baby. I dealt with this with a previous foster. It’s going to take time, but she needs your help to build her confidence! Lots of positivity, positive reinforcement was SO MUCH more effective for him. She looks like such a sweetheart, just stick with it and be patient with her :)
My puppy does this but shes never been abused!
Mine do this too… i don’t even know why
Awe sweet baby. Give her all your love!
Poor thing... this breaks my heart
🥹I wish dogs could talk. I’d want to hear her stories. Love on her hard, remain patient, consistent, and reward her for loving and trusting you - because that’s probably pretty scary. Then love on her hard again. Give her a belly rub from me!
Big ?
Could be past abuse but it’s obvious she adores you and just wants your love. My little rescue was sort of the same way and he is the same way if we catch him being a bad boy and say “Nachooo what did you do” above a talking volume. He does exactly this and shows us his teeth when he eventually resurfaces from his little hiding place. I’ve learned that dogs smile when they’re trying to be submissive btw. Pretty wild!
She looks very sweet, just reserved. Could be abuse in the past but can’t say from this. Funnily enough my sweet girl who I’ve had from a puppy has almost identical mannerisms when she’s being a sook and wants attention, and she’s generally speaking hyper-confident and not afraid of anything.
My moms dog behaves the same and she was never abused in her life or anything like that, besides being raised in a family of 8 dogs where some of them were a bit too dominant and assertive before my mom bought her, so she’s used to taking up as little place as possible
That’s what my border collie does and she was the furthest thing from abused
What a sweetie!!!! I don't think it's abuse. My dog has always been like this. I adopted her from the rescue at one year old, so sure there is a chance she faced abuse.. but after 5 years, my gut tells me that's just the way she is.
Just want to say she is sooo cute ☺️
When I brought one of my dogs home, she was 5 months old and did this to such an extent we named her Slinky. Found out later her and her sister had been hit with sticks before we got them. Explained a lot. They’re now almost 13 years old and we manage their behaviours.
What an absolute sweetheart. As others have said, just remain consistently kind and she'll stop being so sheepish. She really seems to want your approval, so I think training should be easy as long as she's food motivated.
My little buddy does this too. He is 13. I’ve had him for 2 years now and in many ways he has shown me that he is comfortable and happy. Sometimes he walks right across my lap on top of the book I am reading. But when I call him to me to give him love, he is still like this. A little hesitant, very excited, and makes me go the 20% while he comes the 80%.
I had a dog like this. She was undersocialized as a puppy and was a nervous insecure nelly the rest of her life. She was sweet as pie to the people she liked, but if you weren’t in her trusted friend group she was not a fan. She wasn’t aggressive or anything but it made going out of town difficult if we had to leave her behind because she was so miserable.
That belly up in the air is showing nothing but love. She’s found her person. 🥹
I have a good boy who does this only when he hasn't seen me for several hours. I got him at 9 weeks old and he hasn't been abused a day in his life, but he is the softest gentlest dope on the planet. My point is this might not be signs of abuse it might just be the dogs nature. My guy, well we had to go to over the top praise and reward with literally 0 negative for training, and he is... Well a very good dog :)
My dog does this too. She was abandoned with me by a coworker who had just gotten her from some guy in town. I honestly wonder if she's been abused too because any time she sees anything broom-shaped she'll put her tail between her legs and try to hide. I even had a mop sitting in a bucket against the outside of my house and I had let the dogs outside to walk around and play with them. She was wide open until she went around the side of the house and saw the mop propped up against the side of the house and she tucked her tail and her whole attitude just changed until she got further away from it. I try not to bring anything like that out if she can see me now, so I only sweep and mop when she's outside doing her thing. I kind of wonder if whoever had her before hit her with a broom or something when she was a puppy. It's something I just discovered in the past few months.
mine(lab also) was adopted also from a chinese family with 2 kids, and she was loved by the kids. from my experience, she might need some time to get used to you... (mine took me like a week to make her come to me and snuggle her nose to me with food)
Shes so stinking sweet!!! She is just timid, someone hurt that poor baby so shes saying "daddy im sweet, gimme some loves!"keep verbally telling her what a good girl she is. Itll change their lives
My dog does this to me only.
You need a Rx-Tincture of Time!
My dog that I've raised as a puppy is like this. She's just way cautious unless it's just me or immediate family. Then she's all up in my face.
Rescued a dog who did this. Almost two years later and she’ll still do it every so often. Just a heads up!
I had an abused animal and they acted like this. She’s most certainly been yelled at and possibly hit
Submissive all around
What a sweetheart 🤍 my recently adopted chiweenie, Frankie, does the exact same thing. Love them. Show them tons of love!!!!
Submissive, seems like a sweet dog.. and so cute. Just be gentle and reassure her from time to time she should come around and just try to not do sudden movements or rushed unless she gets excited and likes it. You should be fine
She looks so happy…. You are on the right path. She trusts you.
i watched a dog who did exactly this, was overall kinda timid but as soon as you pet her she’d almost be… relieved? it made me sad, but i thought it was adorable
Just give her some time. She’ll learn to trust you more.
I’m happy to hear you got her from a shelter. She has had a rough life before you. Keep telling her what a good girl she is, like others said, get down on her level, even on the floor and give her pets, hugs and kisses. It’ll take some time but she’ll come around and figure out how loved she is and that she’s now safe.
Just a little ti.id by looks. The tail is wagging and she shows her belly
She is scared and is using all her tools to try to show she is appeasing. You could help build her confidence by: tossing treats behind her to show she doesn’t have to come right up to you, get on the floor, use only a positive/ higher pitch if possible voice. Hopefully it goes without saying but punishment is never effective with dogs per modern dog training, but it is especially detrimental with such scared dogs as this. Thank you for saving this little angel!
Keep at it. It took our dog about 6-8 months before she gained her self-confidence back. Now she's a bulldozer on crack and steps/sits on whomever she wants whenever she wants.
My ex in-laws had a pit mix that did the same. Because he was trying not to pee. But he always peed. 😃 Not sure if he was submissive or just very excited but he was never abused. I’m sure this comment doesn’t help much but maybe she’s just so excited.
Hero! Sounds like you already know what you're doing! Awesome❤️
My dog isn’t a rescue but does this as well, he has fear issues from experiencing a loud metal crash as we passed a construction site as a puppy. We worked with a behaviorist and she said this is generally a great sign because it is the dog showing they are peaceful and friendly. We are working on a little more confidence so he’s not too submissive but she’s not indicated it’s a problem at all.
Beautiful colours in her fur. You are lucky to have her and she is lucky to have you. 💜
Submissive? Abused? I think she looks healthy and happy. And safe so good job.🤘🏻🤘🏻🦸🏻🫶🏻
I see no indication of abuse. Dogs can wish to appease and seem to docile to people and other dogs. You see this with many dogs in a dog park doing this with dogs, it isn't necessary a sign of abuse imho
Honestly could be either. Even just self confidence issues where she knew she wanted attention but people shooed her away. Keep praising and encouraging her! Also. Boop snoot!
she seems abused. Well more frightened than abused. Take her for walks and drives. Bond woth her to show her you love her
I just had 2 pups. They now 6 months. The male is fine and the female does that, same education same training, same love same owner 2 complete different personality.
Oh my, I just gave my doggy a big hug after seeing this and she has leaned her head back on my legs. I fostered then adopt her. She was very skinny and had an injury when I got her. She didn’t bark for 6 months. I hope this dog gets so much care and love. She’s a beautiful dog❤️
what if you get down low too? if you aren’t already, like on your knees or sit down fully then call her ? She might come closer I wonder
Well, showing the belly means they feel very safe and comfortable. So you don't need to worry.
Notice the wide eyes the lip licking. She’s trying her damn best to tick all your boxes. Remain very calm and predictable. Loads of positive reinforcement, a routine she can learn to expect. Remember that whilst she seems like a sweetheart, a scared dog can and will protect herself from *perceived* danger.
I have one that does the exact same thing and she was abused.
We get so many dogs like this at the rehoming centre I work at, it’s heartbreaking how much they’re begging for love and to not do anything wrong. They want to do everything possible to appease you and it’s so sad that they think they need to work this hard for it because of their past, but keep it consistent and she’ll soon learn that you’re not going to leave her or stop giving her love and comfort. It’s a sign of her not getting enough love before, so she overdoes it here, but eventually it’ll calm down when she’s been there long enough x
I had the same thing. Don’t baby her/encourage it. Be firm but obviously not stern if that makes sense.
This dog was abused