hello
I'm new (although I've logged on and read helpful posts for months now in anticipation of the arrival of Wisley our cocker spaniel pup who is 9 weeks old today!).

Our new pup has now been with us for nearly a week but is very wary of my husband and won't play at all with him (he just runs to his crate or lies down at his feet/on his lap for strokage!). We were thinking that this might be because he rested on my lap during the hour and a bit's journey home from the breeder's house and so "got to know me" first and therefore feels more comfy with me. We also thought that possibly the breeder's husband didn't really spend much time with the pups I don't think so perhaps Wisley isn't sure about hearing a man's voice. We've tried hubby keeping his voice high when he talks to the pup and giving treats when the pup approaches him so he thinks he is a "good thing" but nothing seems to be working so far. I'm trying to keep out the room when they are trying to play together so Wisley doesn't get confused between us and doesn't have anyone else to turn to for attention apart from hubby but it doesn't seem to be working yet. Are we just rushing the pup and he'll settle down with hubby over the next few days? Can anyone suggest anything else we could try?

By the way, am very proud that we have only had one "indoor" accident and Wisley breaks off even the most exciting play session to take himself outside for a wee! Had to tell someone!!

Any help very gratefully received!

thanks
Wisleyma

Congratulations on your Cocker pup!! :)

You seem to be doing the right things in my view; I agree the pup is probably not so  used to men, i had the same with my BSD who is now very confident with both sexes. I would suggest your husband gives the pup his meals so the pup starts to associate him with pleasant things. Also is very careful to not push the pup too much - maybe just roll a toy quietly away from the pup so it is up to him to chase it or not, and so on.

Remember too to socialise the pup to men but  don't let them get too close, as that could be counter productive until Wisley is more confident :)

Hth i am sure others will be along with good advice.....

Lindsay
X

A man's voice can sound very hard to a very young puppy, a total contrast to the softer higher pitched woman's voice. For this reason a woman is often more sucessful at training the more timid puppy whereas the harder sounding, more commanding man's voice will often work better with the more dominant dog. We really have to lighten up and pitch our voices an octave higher when we play with a puppy compared to you women. Also speaking quietly helps although I find in my puppy class that getting down to the baby's level and letting my hands to the talking works for me.

Best wishes, John

thanks v much for responses. I guess we just have to be patient! He's getting bolder every day so perhaps by next week they'll be playing happily together! Hubbys also got 2 weeks off work from the end of next week when he'll be "in charge" so that's sure to firm up their bond!

wisleyma xx