Is this normal?
I know she is young but is it normal for her to be afraid of my daughter running around?
What should i do to have her be less afraid?
Hi
Your Rottie pup is just a baby, and if she’s not spent the first few weeks of her life around small children then it’s perfectly normal (and understandable) that she will be scared of, or unsure of, your daughter.
Toddlers and young children move quickly and erratically, they also have high pitched voices and sudden, jerky movements. These behaviors can cause a puppy to feel anxious or to react nervously. They can also occasionally make an older dog see small children ‘prey’ – so it’s much better to raise a puppy with children from the beginning.
I’d recommend that you try to help your daughter understand that the puppy is a bit nervous about her and try to get her to move more slowly, and be more quiet, around the pup to begin with. Most little ones can be very empathetic and try hard to do this. Also don’t allow her to overwhelm the puppy with attention such as hugging, stroking, kissing and so on. If your pup feels ‘cornered’ or unable to get away when she’s scared it will make things more difficult.
As for the puppy, don’t make a big deal of her being nervous, ignore it whenever you can. Let her get used to your daughter at her own pace, and from a distance if necessary. Don’t force her to accept petting or hugging at first. Let her adjust and seek out attention in her own time. This will make the whole process less stressful for everyone.
During the early days in a new home most puppies have to go through some adjustments as they get used to living in a new home, with new people and without their doggie family. It’s scary and a bit difficult for them, but most pup adjust well within a week or so and become more self-confident and outgoing. Just give your puppy time and I’m sure she will be fine… and your daughter and puppy will be best friends.
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