Family Addition... :P

[cbianco]

We had that happen once with a foster dog. He was the smallest (ours were way bigger) but he would snap at them at the slightest thing. It seems like it was more of a defense thing and luckily he never snapped at us. Was always very loving with people.
He went on to a different foster home and got along great with their dogs. Either just a different chemistry or maybe he just needed longer to settle in.
Did they give you any history on Bella in her foster home (other dogs, etc.). She might just be freaked out right now and get better as she feels more secure.
I'd still call and let the rescue place know though. Maybe they can help.

I did call the rescue and let them know. Keep in mind that there is a 2 week trail period and the dog can be either taken away by the rescue or returned by us. I'm hoping it is an adjustment thing and she just needs some time to settle down. I would like to stick it out for a few day or a week before giving her back. I've never been one to quit.

Allan! With your love of everything manly I would have never pictured you with a purse dog under your arm. Pink sparkly collars too?

Jack must have been over that day. You should see his dog carrier, pink leather. May be Coach brand!?

I love my little dogs. They're bit sized fun and don't take up too much room on the couch.

Sorry to hear that. Hope things settle down.

I think I just need to give it a bit of additional time. Keep your fingers crossed.

Ohhh!!! I can't wait to hear the answer to this one!!

Answered above. ;)

Human aggression is always the result of a bigger problem ie previous owners. If you decide to try correcting this problem your self, you should still make it VERY clear to the adoption agency how badly they screwed up in not disclosing this info to you and your family. I'd report them to the city too.

Honestly, I don't think they knew. They had this dog in foster care with several other dogs and hadn't seen any problems. Also, the rescue agency has been very forth coming with medical information and her background.

I think she is just going through an adjustment period.

Check out my edit to post #16.

This morning we brought the dog to our vet. and he said she was quite health considering her history. The rescue agency had already given her all shots, flea meds and heart worm meds so we didn't have to pay anything extra except for a checkup. We also took her to get a hair cut, pics later.

Over all she is friendly but a bit moody. I think she just needs some time, we'll have to see.

Christopher

[cbianco]

Bella recieved a haircut today, now she matches with Luna and Dulce.

As well, her behavior has been much better today. She took a long nap with both Luna and Dulce nearby and sat next to me (watching) as I played with the two dogs. Keep your fingers crossed.







Christopher

[Kristy]

What a cutie! Some day I will have to post pics of my moms two shih tzus. They have the same coloring as Bella.

We have had a few behavioral adjustments with our new adopted dog, Calypso (Calli) but she improves every day... And it's nothing compared to the behavioral adjustments of taking in foster kids!

EDIT: I would not be surprised if the snippy behavior is just her adjustment as they sort out the pecking order.

[cbianco]

What a cutie! Some day I will have to post pics of my moms two shih tzus. They have the same coloring as Bella.

I'd love to see them. Both my wife and I are shih tzu fans.

We have had a few behavioral adjustments with our new adopted dog, Calypso (Calli) but she improves every day... And it's nothing compared to the behavioral adjustments of taking in foster kids!

Today has been much better than yesterday. Some low growling but no nipping.

EDIT: I would not be surprised if the snippy behavior is just her adjustment as they sort out the pecking order.

This is exactly what I'm hoping. Everyone figuring out what order they fall in.

If nothing else...

The great thing about adopting an older dog is NO POTTY TRAINING. Bella goes to the door and wimpers or barks if she needs to go outside for a non-scheduled pit stop.

Christopher