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    My Havanese was very timid his first 6 months with us as a puppy. Most Havanese have a shy side. Socialize and socialize some more. It took at least 5 trips to the dog park before my little one would come out from under the picnic table or stop cowering beside my legs. (Some folks think dog parks are awful, but our favorite is well maintained and we didn't go until he was 9 months old and immunized.) He would venture out a little and come scurrying back. Eventually he learned how to play with other dogs and which others to avoid. Patience and persistence paid off. Just a one time trial won't cut it. Since every first time is new and scary, repeated exposure helps them learn about the world.

    Havanese are very smart and love to learn. They will become the star of any class - although you do have to do the homework. Helping them overcome shyness is a gift to give them.

    We signed up for puppy class after puppy class starting at 5 months old. He loved the trick class, I liked the canine companion training and he eventually became Therapy Dog trained. I learned about his personality. He likes children one at a time, not as a group. He believes everything belongs to him and doesn't like to 'give' but will if I beg enough!

    My little guy always wanted to move away from or to bark at strangers. He tends to do it more when on leash than off (opposite of what a Therapy Dog needs to do!) I think when he is on the leash he is either protecting me or feels he can't run away from danger. In heel position he is perfect. When I let him walk ahead he seems to be watching out for me. We've overcome that glitch - again, with continuous training.

    I've read a million books, watched a ton of YouTube videos on any specific issue that needed a solution and tried to use all positive techniques.

    He has learned the commands 'go say hello' or 'make friends,' and now he will walk up to and let a stranger pet him. I tell people to keep their hands below his head and pet sides or back not pat on the head.

    On our daily walk around the block, my pup recognizes his friends (Skyler, the Australian Shepherd, Chloe the peek-a-poo, Coco the terrier, and enemies -Einstein who he fears). Einstein is another Havanese who was aggressive the first time they met and my dog looks at me with the expression "may we please cross to the other side of the street?" when we see Einstein. Your dog will learn how to meet and greet other dogs, but just like people he needs opportunities to size up others and see what works and what doesn't. Set up play dates with other pets if possible & stay watchful and encouraging.

    So to sum up, the most difficult part is finding time and ways to expose your puppy to as many people and other dogs as possible, especially while they are as young as possible. Take them with you to the pet store, the hardware store, for walks, invite friends and children over, go to classes, etc. The time you put in to socialize your pup when little gives them a world of knowledge and helps them become well mannered and delightful to all who meet them. Dogs grow up so quickly. Frankly, I never spent so much time raising a puppy as I have my Havanese. I've always had dogs. With this one, I decided to really pay attention and I can't begin to describe how rewarding it has been for both of us!

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    Hi Aria
    I think a training class may be a good start, or try a dog park. Your dog can watch other dogs running and playing and it might help adjusting. Hope all goes well, Rod
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