What to do?

by u saying that u don't know if its a female or male that say to me that you have not been able to touch the dog do not i repeat do not take this in your own hand seek a professional or consult one. even after have someone else there with u this can be very dangerous not saying that the dog wants to hurt you but a dog back in a corner will defend it self even though u are trying to help it i know u are trying to help but doing this by your self may make it worst i agree with marta j with saying Dog Whisperer show but in the start of the show it says do not do this your self consult a pro

We have two dogs that were abused before we obtained them. Bandit, our rat terrier does not like males. When we first brought him home from the pound, he would bark and attack any male that he saw, or heard. He was abused and a nervous wreck. When I picked something up, for example to brush my hair, he would fall to the floor in fear of being struck. He has now learned to trust us and does not fear anyone.

Courage is a mini fox terrier we purchased for my mom for her birthday. He is quite skiddish. At first he would hide and shake when he knew someone else came into the room. When we first got him, I was so excited and I grabbed him to hug from the cage. He bit me and ran off. This will be his 7th month with us, and he is still a little nervous around new people but he accepts and trusts us.

Your new doggie needs you more than anything. Taking baby steps will be the most beneficial. Stay calm and reach out with out showing any fear is an initial step. If you show a dog fear, it will feel threatened and attack. To bathe and groom, it may take just one brush stroke to start and over time brushing a few more strokes until the dog trusts you. Slowly the dog will grow to accept your care... GOOD LUCK!

Number one do not feel sorry for the dog. I know it's hard but the dogs senses that and it can make the dog worse. Dont' give the dog affection when it's not in a calm state. Whenever you give a dog affection it's telling a dog you agree with that behavior. So if a dog is scared or nervous and you give affection your telling the dog that is want you want. Trust takes time. Being a strong leader is very important to a dog. Strong leadership means saftey. Weak or no leadership means to the dog "I'm in danger" and they react with fear that can lead to aggression to protect themselves. I sound like a broken record but please watch the Dog Whisperer, go online or get his books. I know you'll learn alot and the dog will thank you. Good luck, he's lucky he has you.