My dog just lies in his bed all day

Niimtz
Niimtz Icon representing the flag French
Report

Hi everyone!

I’ve got a bit of a question - I hope it doesn't sound silly and that some of you might have the time to help me out...

I adopted a Shiba Inu two days ago (on the 23rd of January, to be precise). The breeder warned me that he might be a bit unsettled and act a bit strangely for the first few days, but I didn't expect it to be quite this dramatic.

Rory spends his whole day huddled in his bed. He won't move from it. He's eating very, very little, and will only drink if I put him right in front of his bowls. He isn't showing much interest in his toys, and it's impossible to lure him out of the bed. He doesn't react to treats, food in general, or when I try to get him to play, etc...

I'm trying to keep things in perspective because when we're out on walks, his behaviour changes completely. He perks up, becomes curious and affectionate, comes when called, and goes up to other dogs and people, etc... but as soon as we're back inside... it's back to moping in his bed.

Again, the breeder and a friend who’s a vet have assured me that this is normal, but I can't help but worry. Is there anything I can do to help him feel more settled indoors?

Thanks for reading and for any advice you might have. :)

Translated from French
icon info

The forum content is sometimes translated from another language, and posts may concern countries with different animal laws. Do your research before making any decisions.

Since the forum is translated by AI, the translations may contain errors.

Loading editor

Write your message and upload a photo if you want to! Please remain courteous in your exchanges.

Your post will be visible to all members of the international Wamiz forum.

13 answers
Sort by:
  • Show previous comments
  • Niimtz
    Niimtz Icon representing the flag French
    Report
    Hi again! Thanks for your reassuring replies. Since my last post, Rory has really settled into the flat and is venturing out of his bed much more often. He’s even started "marking his territory" quite a bit, much to my dismay :') He’s still not very keen on toys or food though; I’m hoping I’ll find something he’s really into soon, as I’m struggling to start his training since I don’t have any "bargaining chips" to get him interested and motivated to follow my commands. I hope to keep chatting with you all, it’s been a huge help. Thanks again!
    Translated from French
    Priscillasm
    Priscillasm Icon representing the flag French
    Report

    Hi! I’ve just brought home a little Shiba too, and for the first few days he did exactly the same as yours! Even when he was clearly curious about everything around him, he’d always keep one paw on his bed like a safety net. I think you have to look on the bright side: at least he feels safe in his own space, and the rest will follow!

    Good luck with it all 😃

    Translated from French
    Tania28
    Tania28 Icon representing the flag French
    Report

    Yeah, everything sounds completely normal for a puppy this age. He’s likely just left his mum and littermates, so he just needs a bit of time to find his feet.

    Play with him, keep him engaged, and stay upbeat... and if you can get him socialising with other dogs soon, that’ll do him the world of good 🙂

    Any chance of a photo of Rory? 😉

    Translated from French
  • 13 comments out of 13

  • Do you have a question? An experience to share? Create a post on our forum!