Shy/timid around other dogs.

[bolt94]

Rosie is an approximately 5-month old Rottweiler mix that I am fostering. She came to me almost a month ago and in that short time we've accomplished both crate training 101 as well as housebreaking 101.

She was a little shy around my resident dog (a 5-year old male) but within a few days, she really came around. To date, she's holding her own w/ my male and has even started to initiate play from time to time.

Rosie and I started a basic puppy obedience class three weeks ago. She is a very smart girl and picks up things w/ ease. However, she is very timid and appears to be afraid of most dogs.

My question is, how do I get her socialized around other (preferably well-mannered) dogs her age? Our weekly ob class is very small and most of the dogs are much larger than her (and, since it's a PUPPY class... not very well-mannered).

Maybe I'm asking for too much too soon?

Advice? Tips? Comments? All will be appreciated.

Thanks in advance,
~K

[Zumie05]

I too found it difficult to socialize with other puppies because of the whole manners thing. What I have found to work the best is to stick with introducing the pup to adult dog-friendly dogs.

Just go to Petsmart or Petco on a Saturday and you should meet plenty there! Go with a pocket full of treats too!