Suddenly Scared

[Marie + Marshall]

My almost 14 week old GD, has had a lot of exposure to new people. He has gone to work with me everyday since he was 9 weeks old. He has always meant new people (and been friendly) and although hasn't had too much time with other animals. He has been around my daughters dog on a couple occasions. Suddenly in the last two days he has barked and even growled some, to people coming into my office and these are co-workers he has seen every day. So weird!! Also, last night he heard a dog barking in the distance and refused to potty and ran into the door to get back in side. I am considering some Doggy Day care here and there. My question is: Do they go through a stage like this at certain times? Or do I have a problem? Thanks for any advice

[Gayle & Hunter]

Marie I believe this is normal, from what I have read at about 14 to 16 weeks they are afraid of everything all over again. Then I believe they go through another bout at I think 9 months. I had to reintroduce the washer, vacuum cleaner and a bunch of other stuff. Hope this might help ease your concern.

[Marie + Marshall]

Thanks... That is what I was thinking too. He starts Puppy classes November 1st, so that should help too :)

[Gayle & Hunter]

It will Marie. I have been going through the nipping phase still, he is getting so much better but not completely stopped....I guess it just takes patience. Hunter went to puppy class one and we are now waiting for the CGC class to start in January. Good luck with puppy class you will love it.

[Cindy and Olive (Ollie)]

Fear stage! If it were me, I'd try to intro him to some friendly, healthy dogs for sure. Positive interactions/exposures are key, not just simply exposure, right? Treat him when he is brave. :)
Also could he have been too high energy in the office? I'd drain him of some energy before his office "encounters." Fetch, walk first, etc. - tired pup is good pup, right?
I'm really happy we had lots of puppy play dates with Rip right away. He is so social now and we really enjoy that part of having a dog. I watched Doggy Dan videos all the time! You might like to check him out, he has loads on puppy time, and he is terrific. Best,

[Marie + Marshall]

Thanks.. We try to exercise him. Morning before office and lunch time- but the alternative to the Office is home 9 hours in a crate (not happening) or Doggy Day Care- that may happen after his shots are complete. But this happened after playtime too when he heard dogs barking in the distance (a couple doors down) he ran in. We will get into classes Nov 1st. I'm excited to see how he does. Because he is SO smart. He can do several commands (sit, stay,shake paw, lay down) already without classes. But need work on leash. I will check out Doggy Dan tonight- thanks for the tip :)

[Cindy and Olive (Ollie)]

Absolutely! Sounds like you are off to a fantastic start already...