Rescued Newfie Too Afraid To Step Inside Takes First Brave Steps
A rescued Newfoundland dog is learning to trust people thanks to the patience and love of his new family.
Annie Hoskins (TikTokker @ahoskins917) and her family recently rescued Baloo, a very scared dog. It was clear he had suffered abuse and trauma—he became stressed if they looked at him while walking toward him in the house, and he was initially too afraid to come inside, even refusing to take treats from their hands.
Baloo’s new family knew they would have to adjust their behavior to help him feel safe. This included finding ways to coax him inside at his own pace. A few days after bringing Baloo home, Annie shared a video showing one method she used: placing food just inside the door, hoping he would step inside. She noted that it took over an hour for him to work up the courage.
In the video, she wrote, “How I try to convince Baloo he’s allowed to come back in the house. He’s terrified of leashes so he can’t be walked in – so encouragement and huge value treats. It took over an hour when it was 20 degrees but I will do this every day the rest of my life if that shows him he’s safe.”
Being a 100-plus-pound Newfoundland meant Baloo couldn’t simply be picked up and carried inside—he had to want to come in on his own. Viewers asked Annie to share a video of Baloo actually stepping inside, so she did, showing him looking nervous but bravely making progress.
One viewer wrote, “Baby steps for baby Baloo. He’s getting there.” Annie responded, “He’s [a] big brave boy!! We discovered pot roast is something he goes crazy over!! So I have one cooking for him! (No seasonings and such)”
“We all need to feel safe. You are creating a safe space for a return into the safety of your home, his home. Thank you,” said another viewer.
Annie also shared another video showing one of Baloo’s behavioral challenges inside the house: “How we walk the house because Baloo stresses out if you look at him when walking.”
Despite his fears, Baloo is beginning to relax. He now enjoys snuggles with his new dad and doggie sibling and is even warming up to being petted.
Slowly but surely, Baloo is learning to trust his new family. We’re certain he’ll be one big, confident love bug in no time.
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