My havanese puppy acts fearful around my boyfriend.

[fictionqueen]

Winston is between four and five months old, and he seems to be afraid of some men, including my boyfriend.
I purchased him from a breeder when he was 11 weeks old and training is going well (of course he's brilliant) He knows "sit and "down." We are still working on stay and come as well as potty training a little
He goes to work with me every day at a hair salon so he is around new people all the time. He seems to like most men, but there are just a few that he shies away from (including my man)
Winston stays just out of reach and wont let my boyfriend pick him up, or even touch him really
The boyfriend says he doesn't care any more, but I don't believe him.
I hope you may have some advice on what to do with the men in my life.

 

[darkchild16]

My moms Havanese is the same way. After 2 years she is finally starting to accept me and my brother. She is a stric one person dog. She tolerates me and my brother. One thing that has helped is letting her come to me and giving her a treat (either food or me talking to her, taking her outside, anything she enjoys) I demand her be obedient for me too. She will sit, lay down and go in the crate for me but she will not let me pick her up yet or even pet her without my mom. They are a more one person dog then a friendly dog. You have got to give him time and try and incorporate your boyfriend and other men in his daily routine. Men are very intimidating for a dog a Havanese size. Do not baby or coddle him when he acts scared that is reinforcing that behavior.

 

[fictionqueen]

Thankyou DarkChild

That is great advice! I did not know that the havanese tend to be one person dogs! I just hope it doesn't take two years for the boys to get to like each other. Since Winston goes to work with me, he basically spends 24 hours a day 7 days a week with me. We are working hard to get the potty training locked in as my boyfriend doesn't want to keep him during the day untill potty is a sure thing. Maybe if he takes over some of the puppy time and training it will bring them together. LOL

 

[darkchild16]

it took 2 years with me because I didnt live here full time. Him helping with the feeding, taking out, really any puppy Good thing will help. Hes also used to spending all his time with you I would start leaving him with the boyfriend alone a little at a time.