I'm hoping some of you dog enthusiasts can help me. I'm in a bit of a unique situation. My wife and I recently sold our house and have moved in with my wife's sister and family until we settle into a new house. They currently have two dogs on big and one small. The lager dog (Part pit and lab) is very skittish of new comers. Since I leave last in the mornings I have been assigned the task of placing the dogs in their crates before I leave. The larger dog will not come to me, he will at times sniff my hand but if a make any moves to pet him he runs off with is tail between his legs. I'm worried in my efforts to coral the dog, the dog will feel threatened or cornered and lash out. I don't believe the dog will bite, but I don't want to put the animal or myself in that situation. I have found that this dog really likes his leash and as soon as he sees it his tail wags and he appears happy. I've been putting the dog on the leash, walking him for about 5-10 minutes then once we are in the house I lead him straight to his create. This seems to work, I just want the dog not to be afraid of me. Any suggestions......

The dog is very suspicious of you. Continue doing what you are doing. He might eventually come to trust you. Then again, he may just be happy having you take him for walks and nothing else. You are right not trying to corner him. Let him come to you. See if he likes to play ball, this will help him get adjusted to you.

Howard