I have a nine month Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

[haysi06]

who is extremely timid and shys away from people when I take her out. How can I get her to stop being so scared? I saw her elder 'sister', who is about a year older and she has the same temperament too. Could it be something to do with how they were treated by the breeder? Or is it inherent in the CKCS?

[firewatch]

does she mind her head being touched???

[haysi06]

Hi firewatch, she shys away completely when anyone tries to pet her when we are out. However she loves being petted by me and loves having her head/ears/chin stroked.

[firewatch]

just did some research for you apparently it is in the breed. there is lots of information out there for you! I was just wondering about the head as in the article i found for you it explains about a condition charlies can suffer.
http://www.yourpurebredpuppy.com/reviews/caval ierkingcharlesspaniels.html

[haysi06]

Thank you firewatch that was very good of you :) My friends parents have 2 CKCS and the 'ruby' one is very friendly and will come to you for a pet but the 'black and tan' (which mine is too), is very subdued around people. The article is spot on with the dogs wanting to be close to people though as the wee one loves close company!

[mightylegend]

see bbciplayer about genetic inherited diseases in pedigree dogs


these dogs have a skull to brain ratio size problem , l

[mightylegend]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/7569521.stm

[firewatch]

Thats what i was looking for! thanks leggy!

[haysi06]

I don't think that is it as she allows me to pet her head.

[babybow]

i found the link very disturbing,. to think that these breeders can get away with in breeding is disgusting. tell you what after seeing that programme i would NEVER contemplate on buying a pedigree dog

[Ice.Maiden]

Yes bb, but if everyone suddenly stopped buying them, the surplus'd have to be put down. I'd rather buy a pedigree animal and then make sure it's well loved and cared for - but I wouldn't breed from them

[jjjohnny]

a quote for haysi and legend - "Most people deserve each other." -Anon.

[haysi06]

Hi babybow, Ice.Maiden, I too found that BBC report disturbing. My dog is a pedigree and I think that I will ask the vet the next time I take her if she has any ideas as to why she is so shy. I am hoping now that it is just her temperament, she is very loving with me and close family.

jjjohnny, you are absolutely right mate - I deserve George Clooney LOL