My german shepard is very scared

Actually its not a stupid idea to sing to them. As long as you don’t sound threatening. Maybe you could try win her over with some treats…we did it with our one abused parrot.

a lot of time and introducing her to new sounds, places and faces. Don’t baby her when she is scared, this is showing her that that type of behaviour or reaction is ok, itstead stay firm, postive and renforce her that is is ok, but do it in a very confident way. Reward her with treats, She will start to understand and do a turn around. We had a dog come into the hospital this week who wanted nothing to do with us and was no socialized at all. He was only with us 3 days and by the last day he was coming to us and getting treats. It does not take a long time, but please don’t baby scared behaviour by cuddling her or using baby talk, that just shows her that it is ok to act this way.

I had a cat who was like that for a bit. I used to sing to her. I know it sounds stupid but…

shame. we also had an abused german shephard a few years ago. I used to just sit calmly calling him until he would trust me. Never shout at her. and if you do get her in the house be careful not to make any sudden noises.

Time…time…time…

She might not have been abused, simply not socialized…and, these days there is a predispotion in German Shepherds for inborn fear…GSD’s can be very responsive to kindness, soft voices, slow movement…etc. Once you are able win her trust, then obiedence is in order to build her confidence (learning to do things that please you works wonders in building them up)…

I would give her at least 2 weeks to get acclimated to you.

Men’s voices, and their size can intimidate a frightened dog…so be sure to include your man in feeding, obedience, etc.

p

Yes, it is going to take a lot of time and love but the reward is worth it. Sit about 4 feet from where she stays [mine over-abused one will hide in any hole]. Read anything to her, laugh softly, hum or sing…snack with things you will share with her [cookies -no chocolate- crackers etc…Do that several times a day, like 15 minutes at a time. Keep a container of water between you and the dog. Don’t change your tempo when she comes out to drink, just keep it natural…3 days at the most she will be there for some crackers [not yet from your hand, just let them fall on the floor or a small mat close to you]. When you enter your home leave the door open behind you for about 5 minutes…close it very softly after inviting her in. If someone comes to visit, tell her in advance…keep the visitor at a distance, walk toward the person and comeback together toward the dog. Stop at your usual place 4 feet from her…That is Her safety net…Repeat to her, how lucky you are to have her. Once she starts coming to you, change your reading tone to a complimenting tone..”look who is beautiful today etc…also never remind them of their “bad time” it depress them…also be careful of your perfume, have a drop of citronella, or lavender on your wrist.

My jack russell is likethat and weve had her for 3 years now.. Just give it time it will learn that you are there to love it and get used to you..