23/01/2025
Meet Gypsy, the Shy Staffy with a Big Heart
Over the Christmas and New Year break, I had the pleasure of looking after Gypsy, a beautiful but very anxious Staffy. For 9 nights, we worked on building trust, one day at a time, and the transformation was incredible. 🥰
Day 1: Gypsy wanted nothing to do with me. She hid under the house all day and wouldn’t come close for a walk.😢
Day 2: Progress! Gypsy barked at me when I arrived but still hid under the house. I sat outside, put some food down, and she eventually came out to eat next to me. 🍗
Day 3: Gypsy started warming up! She still hid when I arrived, but soon came out to greet me. She even showed me her belly and let me sit with her. When I grabbed the lead, she got excited and we went for our first walk together! 🐕
Day 4: A complete turnaround! Gypsy greeted me at the gate with excitement, followed me into the house, and soaked up all the belly rubs, head scratches, and playtime. After our walk, she relaxed with me inside, and we even played chase in the backyard! She also tries to drive my car, but that wasn’t allowed 🤣 🚘
This experience is a reminder that working with anxious dogs takes time and patience. You can’t rush trust – you have to let them come to you on their terms. 🤗
By the end of our time together, Gypsy was a completely different dog, and it was such a rewarding journey to see her confidence grow. 🐾
Have an anxious pup? Let me know – I’m here to help with lots of patience, love, and care! 🐶 🥰