Big day for Jack: dog park!

[jazzy]

Today I took Jack to the dog park for the first time. He's a Shiba Inu, almost 4 months old, and is VERY shy.

There were quite a few dogs there. There were four other Shibas and about six other smaller dogs playing in the same group. Jack sniffed around but didn't really play. He would tuck his tail under his legs and walk away when other dogs tried to play with him. One time a pomerinian mix chased him half away across the park, tail tucked under the entire time.

I knew he was a shy boy, but I've never seen him shy around other dogs like that before. He loves playing with my parent's dogs and just a few nights ago played for 45 minutes with a basset hound we met at a park.

I'm going to sign him up for a socialization class with a local trainer. Any other suggestions to make the park more fun, or does he just need time?

[mollywog]

I don't know anything about your dog's background but to me it just sounds as though he needs more time. I am sure it was overwhelming for him, the first time at the park with all these new dogs not to mention smells, and humans too.
We don't have a dog park in my town, but anytime we are in the closest city that has one, I take Molly. She is always hesitant at first (tail tucked between her legs, crouching as other dogs approach her) but after about 10 minutes she is tearing around and having a great time.
It sounds as though your dog needs some more socialization. Does he have any aggression issues?

[Bailey_]

ADORABLE dog.

I agree with Molly, just keep bringing your dog to the park and the socialization classes and ensure that he gets very used to being around other dogs and people. Now is a critical socialization period, so the classes are wonderful because a trainer can help you ensure that your puppy has GOOD experiences and can teach you about your dogs behavior - what is good, and what is not.

Most importantly, have lots of fun with him! They grow too quickly.

[growler~GateKeeper]

I just wanted to say Jack is adorable