Timid dogs and daycare

Just wanted to chat about timid (or unsocialized) dogs and daycare. We often receive calls from people with young dogs that haven't been socialized. Consequently, their dog is fearful when meeting other dogs. Sometimes, these dogs make wonderful daycare dogs - they just need some time. And some dogs need more time than others. We recently got a client whose shih tzu puppy, Pressley, wasn't well socialized, and was quite timid when meeting new dogs. His owner started bringing him a few times a week to daycare, and slowly Pressley has come out of his shell. Today Pressley has had a GREAT day. He's initiated play with several of the dogs in the small dog play area, and is having the time of his life. It just took him a few visits before he gained enough self confidence to come out of his shell. He also probably didn't really know how to play, and has learned from observing some of our regulars. It's been wonderful watching him grow as a dog, and really makes working here gratifying. So Pressley, we're glad you're having fun and that you fit right in now with the rest of the gang! Here are some pictures of Mr. Pressley.