Would You Take this Dog?
So I am working with a client's dog (a Doberman-Shepherd mix) that they want to stay over for a few days around Memorial Day. Initially, I had a meet and greet with my dog with the client and their dog at the dog park (and henceforth will be meeting in my house and given some time without owner during meet and greets - lesson learned about how different they are!), and the dog seemed fine with me and my dog. They informed me, however, that she hasn't been away from owner much at all. Based on that, I expected some nerves and anxiety, but the owner mentioned he would like a few trial stays on various days beforehand, so she gets used to me. I figured it was therefore something I could manage. Well we had the first in home visit one on one - and yikes. This dog wanted nothing to do with me. Wanted nothing to do with treats, food or toys. She barked at the door, barked and growled at me if I talked to her let alone put a hand towards her (although looking away). She would sniff me if I more or less "turned away" and didn't move for awhile, but essentially, she was a nervous, barking and whining and growling mess for 5 hours. At the end, she finally lay down and relaxed, and I actually was able to put a leash on her...but she had me scared for awhile, to be honest. I suspect me being female when she's used to a male presence might have impacted too, but do you think with a few more meetings she'd be okay? How else can I help her to relax and be calm, and comfortable in the new environment with me? Would you even take this sit? Thanks!