Hi I am new. I will post a long introduction in intros, but right now I am pleading for help.

My new puppy that I rescued(long story, for another time) was abused and is very timid.

His name is Remi. He is a 5 month old aussie/heeler. He is super sweet and wants to please. Follows you around, and lays on the couch beside you. He will take every ounce of love you can give. But, when we approach him, or try to call him he gets all scared. He will wiggle, and hunch down in the front, and bark. He acts like he WANTS to come, but is afraid. If you grab his collar gently to try to lead him from the crate he just totally lays down and you have to kinda drag him.

I have tried to praise him, and give him a treat for coming. I have tried to talk to him and soothe him.

We have had many dogs. My friend is a groomer so I have lot's of experience, but this is a puzzle to me.

Pic attached

TYIA
Sharla

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Koda-my best friend, don't tell my husband, he thinks he's my best friend..lol

Hi
I am new to this forum too but had to reply! Not sure I can help but your poor Remi, it sounds as if he had a horrid time. I would say that what you are doing is right (it is what I would do) and just give plenty of love and encouragement. When he lays down, I would probably lay down too so am at the same height but not sure that is what others would advise.
Good luck

Hi
I'm also new to the forum, but I'll try to help. I think there is going to be no quick and easy answer - poor sausage, if he has had five months of people abusing him when he comes to them no wonder he is frightened and wary! From your post it sounds as though you are already giving him the best thing he could ask for - ie a loving home, an owner who cares, and lots of love when he feel comfortable enough to come to you for it. I think you are going to have to let him find peace at his own pace; don't try to make him come to you, let him approach you as and when he feels comfortable. Don't restrain him or force him to accept contact - remember the "fight or flight" response; if you take away the opportunity for flight, he is going to become even more afraid and might bite in defence.

You sound as if you have lots of experience in interacting with dogs, so you have probably tried all these techniques below, but I'll mention them just in case:

When you try to get him to come to you, turn to the side. Facing him directly is more confrontational than keeping your body turned partially or completely to the side; even turning your head to the side will make him feel less anxious. Don't stare at him because a stare is a threat. Don't hover over him because this can cause him to become even more afraid and possibly defensive. Pet him on the side of his face rather than the top of his head. Don't move towards him quickly, or grab his collar - to grab for his collar is more potentially fear-inducing than moving your hand slowly to his chest, scratching it, then moving up to take hold of the collar. Don't swoop down to pick him up. Fast, direct, overhead movements are much more frightening than slow, indirect ones. Crouch down, pet him for a moment, then gently slip your hands under his belly and chest, and lift. And finally, don't show your teeth when you smile at him. To humans it is friendly, but to a dog a show of teeth is a threat.

Hope all this helps!

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Until you've been hugged by a bergamasco you've never lived!!!

You have one of the best dog whisperers in the world, in the name of Cesar Milan. I would strongly suggest that you purchase one of Cesar's Cd's, or books, whilst seeking professional help.

Dog's that have been abused need expert help, since you could inflame his anxiety by trying to tackle this problem yourself. Best of luck.

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A dog's love will live in your heart forever
We stay when you're away

thanks I appreciate all the help

__________________
Koda-my best friend, don't tell my husband, he thinks he's my best friend..lol