[stephani_m2001]

Ava, our rescue, fits right in with our family now. I thought flyball would be good for her since she loves the tennis ball. We were invited to come and practice with a team to see if it was something we could do. When the trainer tried to work with her she cowered and her ears were pinned back. She looked afraid so we stopped. He said that was a sign of being abused by a man because she was fine when the women in the group handled her. She would even go up to the women for butt rubs. I told him she's fine with my husband. Anyway, he suggested to keep bringing her back to build her confidence. Should I help her get used to certain types of men first before going back?

 

[MeadowCat]

I'd recommend picking up a copy of Leslie McDevitt's book, "Control Unleashed."

Also, showing fear towards one man does not mean she was abused in any way.

 

[Amanda203]

Being fearful of men doesn't mean she was abused. She is just a timid dog and women tend to be less intimidating by nature. My aussie girl is like that with new men. She will even go hide under the dining room table from them at first. When we first started flyball she wouldn't let any of the men touch her but over time she warmed up to them. She loves my team captain so much now that I can barely keep her away from him lol. See if your trainer will just instruct one of the ladies on the team in training her until she warms up. Hope you guys enjoy it! Flyball is a great confidence builder and is so fun for both the dogs and the owner!

 

[Adara]

If she otherwise enjoyed it, I'd definitely go back. I'd work with her being around men under her threshold. You might also try going to walk her at pet stores or Home Depot (IF ALLOWED) and get her around men. For now, I wouldn't have the men interact with her. I'd go slow and see if she's ok walking by, hanging out, etc. Then I might see if they'd be willing to toss a treat to her. Then hand her one, etc.

 

[GingerGunlock]

It may be she just never saw men!

I definitely agree with MeadowCat's book suggestion, and Adara's suggestion at how to get her acclimated to male presence.

 

[stephani_m2001]

Her previous owners were a married couple.