Some dogs are naturally timid or shy, while others may not have learned to trust people while they were young. These dogs need to feel safe before they will interact with people; the work to build a relationship of trust could be a long and hard one but the experience can be one of the most rewarding of dog ownership. Chicken Little Dogs: are fearful of new people and places, take time to trust, shut down here at the shelter, and will bite if people push or try to interact too quickly. However, once they trust a person, the often become very bonded.
OTHER PETS: Nena is a little nervous meeting other dogs, is calm with smaller dogs, and gives appropriate feedback when she becomes uncomfortable with an interaction. She would do well with another laid back dog and she would also do well as an only pet. Nena should meet any dogs she would be living with prior to adoption.
[Case-By-Case (Must Meet First)]
OWNER EXPERIENCE: Someone with experience with positive reinforcement, and scared or shut down dogs would be ideal; someone with the commitment and patience to support Nena as she transitions to her new life and the willingness to learn how to do so would be a good fit. [Some Experience]
KIDS: Nena allows handling but is still uncomfortable with, she has not shown signs of resource guarding during her time at the shelter. High pitched noises, flailing hands, and sudden movements can easily startle timid dogs like Nena. Nena's best fit would be in a quiet home or in a home that had a quiet safe place for her to call her own, with humans who were able to help her feel safe by letting her set the pace of their interactions. Nena should meet ALL humans she would be living with prior to adoption. [Case-By-Case (Must Meet First)]
ACTIVITY LEVEL: Nena is still largly shut down at the shelter but is coming out of her shell and exploring her environment as she feels more comfortable with staff and volunteers. She walks with a mostly loose leash and solicits more attention from those she has walked with, Nena would do well with daily walks. She may have more energy as she gets comfortable in her new home; a combination of regular exercise and plenty of mental enrichment such as food puzzles, games, and toys, will help meet her needs.
[Good Walking Buddy / Olympic Athlete]
VETERINARY CARE: [Routine]
LEVEL OF TRAINING NEEDED: Positive reinforcement training will help Nena bond with her new owner, build confidence, and learn skills and fun tricks. Positive reinforcement will help her build confidence while enjoying time with her guardian. [Moderate]
GROOMING: Regular brushing will keep Nena's coat clean and matt-free and help control shedding. If matting were to occur a professional groomer could assist in getting Nena comfortable again. [Routine Brushing / Professional Grooming]
December 11, 2025, 10:22 am
