Husband feels like he has to walk on egg shells in his own house

[Frances S]

Hi Everyone, I need your advice on my 3 month old Bella.  My husband has been very sweet to Bella from day one, giving her the same affection and attention that we all have been giving her, but everytime Bella sees him she gets very timid and sometimes tinkles on the floor.  Bella seems to have no problems walking up to say hello to women and children, but always gets very shy and runs away from all men when they try to come near her. My husband doesn't want to upset her everyday, and lately has tried to stay out of Bella's way in the house.  Have any advice for me? Thanks

[Melinda]

I have one training idea to try out:

 

Have your husband keep treats in his hand. Have him put out his hand to Bella, when Bella touches his hand he gives her a treat. This will create a positive association (treat) with your husband.

[Jennifer and Jack]

I love this idea Melinda, That is a great great idea

[Lori]

I think that Bella & here Daddy need to spend some quality time together...going for a walk...playing fetch...having some snacks...maybe he could be in charge of feeding her...things like this will create a stronger bond between the 2 of them. I think avoiding her will create more of a problem, she needs to sit on his lap & snuggle - and have some treats : )  Mybe he could come home one day with some new prizes or a bully stick...

let us know how it goes!

[Lindsey]

I agree with all of the advice already given- quality time with DH and Bella are needed :-)
Keep us updated!

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

My two boys never were shy with my DH, but they were nowhere near as bonded to him as they were to me.  A few months ago he also got involved in our training, and it has made a big difference in their relationship.

[Kyoko]

How about daddy hand feeding Bella ?

[Camilla and Darwin]

I agree with the suggestion to have your husband give her treats. Try something really high value, like warm chicken or cheese. They won't be able to resist!

[Frances S]

Hi Everyone,

I'll try having my husband spend more time with Bella.  The snacks on hand will also help.  Thanks for all the advice!  I knew I could count on you all..

[Adina P]

I agree that having your husband take her through training will help a lot.  She's intimidated by men enough so that mere affection and attention isn't going to make her less intimidated.  However, forging a strong relationship of trust and respect through training will probably do FAR more than just giving affection and attention.

[Allyson, Peri & Taquito]

My husband takes my two on their morning walk and he feeds them breakfast.  Peri has never had a fear of men, but these morning walks have made them much closer.  I agree with the other advice - have him work on training (with treats) and take her on some fun walks, letting her sniff around, etc...

[Frances S]

Thanks for the training advice..As of 2 weeks ago Bella the kids and I are attending puppy school, and this has helped her with social skills and being around other pups, as well as getting the kids and I to teach her basic commands by being consistant on the words and actions we use. 

I'll see if I can get my husband to attend the next level of training with us.

[Jenny & Henry]

Give your husband some Lebanon Bologna and keep it in his hand for two or three days!  That might do the trick.  Henry will lick and love anyone if they had Lebanon.