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Location: Roswell, GA
Joined: Mar 2017
Posts: 20
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I know just how you feel! Little dogs like Chihuahuas have a lot of trouble with big, scary men. Here's a few tips on how to integrate your dad into her life in a positive manner.
-Have your dad take over part of her routine. Bedtime, meals, taking her outside, everything. Start by teaching him how to care for her and then slowly, when he has the hang of it and she's more trusting, distance yourself. If they're walking, start out by walking next to them. Once she's enjoying herself, slow down until you're walking about 10 feet behind them. Keep that up and increase the distance until they're walking almost by themselves.
-Praise. If you've been training her, have your dad help you out. While you're next to her, start off by converting casually with your dad. Put on some happy music and keep the atmosphere light. Find her favorite treat (bacon, cheese, beef bones, a really special treat) and give a bag of them to your dad. Have him pet her and praise her until she's relaxed. Then, do some research on tricks she doesn't know. If your dad can read some informative articles and then start working with her on something fun like Shake, Roll Over, Speak, or Army Crawl, then it will really cheer her up. Chihuahuas are smart dogs. If she's concentrating on the trick and getting treats, then she will slowly become less nervous around your dad. Have him keep praising her in a soft, genuine voice. Set some time aside every day, from 5 minutes to 90, that is just 'their time' to work on the trick and cuddle. She will start to look forward to that point in the day.
-You can't really blame her for being scared of men. To her, your dad is the Big Tall Scary Guy that could crush her. When you're working with them, keep your dad on her level. Sit down or lie down on the couch or floor so he doesn't seem so intimidating. Tell him to keep a low, happy voice, as a deep voice makes her think that she's in trouble. Remember, consistency is everything. It could take years for her to be fully trusting with your dad, it could take a month. Just be patient and stick to a routine.
Hope this helps, and good luck!