Expert QA
I was given a 2-year-old Pomchi, which was very nervous when it first came into my care. Its old owners would like to come see her, but I’m worried that this will cause confusion and anxiety for her. Should I allow them to see her?
From the Editors of The Dog Daily
The Pomchi is a cross between a Pomeranian and a Chihuahua. They make wonderful, loyal pets but do tend to be a bit nervous at times and untrusting of strangers. That’s true for many dogs, but especially so for smaller breeds like the Pomchi. On the up side, they are often good barking watchdogs as a result of their vigilance and loyalty to their owners.
Your dog is still quite young but was most likely a puppy when her former owners had her. Puppies and young dogs tend to bond faster to people when they are about 8 months to 1 year old. This is a period when they readily absorb life’s experiences along with everything -- and everyone -- around them.
It’s perfectly normal that she was skittish when she initially came into your home, since all dogs need time to adjust. But now that she has bonded with you, I see no problem in allowing her former owners to visit. Just show her how much you love her through verbal praise, playtime and petting, and she won’t forget your kindness. Dogs, like humans, may have their unpredictable pooch and people preferences, but it’s hard to resist a caring owner. You are likely her pack leader now.