Adopted Dog Question and HELP DEPRESSED!!!!

[animalvr32]

HI, We recently aquired my sis in laws dog about 3 weeks ago.
She was doing fine.... My sis in law came to visit last weekend and since them it has been downhill. She is driving me CRAZY!! I feel bad for her but she doesnt like to go outside to potty and now I have to kiss her butt to eat.
She is sulking and or depressed. Is there anything I can do to help her?

 

[BostonBanker]

My first idea would be to not let the dog see your SIL for quite a while. I've heard that when dogs are rehomed, it is best not to let the dog see it's old owner for up to six months. It sounds like that is when your dog's issues got worse. Imagine, the dog probably thought, "Phew, my mom is here to bring me back home", and then she left without him. I'm sure she's confused and depressed, just as you guessed.

 

[malmo]

Awww... poor baby! I don't have any rock solid recommendations, except what BostonBanker suggested. Limit exposure to previous owner and work hard on new bonding stuff. Awww...

 

[animalvr32]

Yeah, we told her she cant come a visit for awhile. I feel so bad.
It is hard. I just dont know what to do. I sit and talk to her, pet her, we go for walks. I hope that she comes around soon
Thanks

 

[Barb04]

I agree that she's missing your SIL all over again. I also think it's best they don't see each other for awhile. Your pup has to get fully adjusted to living with you and a new home.

 

[SisMorphine]

Be sure that your talking and petting isn't actually coddling as that will just reinforced the dog's depressed behavior.

Though it may sound heartless, don't plead with the dog. If she won't eat her food pick it up and it doesn't get offered until the next meal time. Dogs won't hold out for more than three days.

Also instead of snuggling with her when she's acting depressed, schedule activities for her each day. A long walk someplace fun (beach, a reserve, a park), a play date with a friend's dog, a training session! It's amazing how much training just the basic commands for a few minutes a day can help to focus a dog thus regaining it's confidence. Sign up for an obedience class, whether or not the dog already knows it, as a bonding experience because it sounds like that's what you guys need right now.

 

[animalvr32]

Nope, I know not to give attention when they are doing something you dont want them to. I only put her food down for about 5-10 minutes. If in that time she does not even attempt to eat I pick it up and she doesnt have it offered again until dinner time. Worked yesterday. I just feel so bad for her.
My sis in law is being a jerk about it kinda. I told her she really missed her and she wants no parts of it. I just feel like I was put into this situation with everyone knowing I would do what it takes to help her.
I am just so annoyed.
Anyway, I hope that this is something that can be overcome.
Thanks for advice and thanks for listening.