Brittany shyness

[almostthere!]

Just purchased a 4 month old female. She is either very shy of strangers or down right affraid of strangers. How do I cure this issue?

Is it too late to remove the dew claws?

[gundoglily]

In regards to the dew claws, it would be considered major surgery at this point, so it will not hurt to leave the dew claws. Just keep them trimmed short and you shouldn't have any issues with ripping or such.

With the shyness, you just have to go slowly with new people around the dog. Make everything a positive experience for the dog.

[TRITC]

At the same time you keep it positive I would also try to not make it such a big deal to be around people. Britt's are very in tune with their owners and if you act calm and relaxed they will eventually pick up on that and begin to relax. Also, bring her with you everywhere you go as much as possible; the more varied situations your dog is in the better they can handle the situations.

TRITC

[bergie]

You are in for a treat, Brits are wonderful dogs, personality plus, eager to please so they are easy to train, but they won't put up with harsh treatment. One thing they need is lots of exercise, they are a bundle of energy and if they can't work it off they will drive you crazy. You got yours a little late so that might be part of the shyness but if you spend a lot of time with her and she gets to trust you, she will trust the situations you put her in. As far as the dew claws I would check with the vet, I'm surprised the breeder didn't take care of that.

[almostthere!]

Thanks guys.

She is pointing wings like crazy. She is gaining more confidence during training sessions. Hopefully, she will outgrow her shyness with age.

[HawgMan]

Don't worry,I've had Britts for 20 years,give the dog time,it'll come around.