Meet Ellie May or May May as she is affectionately called. She’s my niece’s dog. She was bought from a homeless person when she was just a pup. Her days on the street scarred her a bit.  She’s skittish and doesn’t warm up to people easily.  I’m slowly becoming her friend by bribing her with dog treats and Cheerios.

She came to play with Misha last week.  I use the word “play” loosely.  Misha and May May are alike in many ways.  Although they’ve known each other for about 3 years, they most circle, sniff, and avoid.

As you can see, my attempts to get a photo of them together went awry.  Well, at least I got them in the same frame.

Misha really isn’t this much larger than Ellie May, it’s just the angle.  Though I think she’s about 2 lbs heavier.

May May has that scruffy cute that you can’t help but love.  She’s some sort of terrier but we just don’t know what.

Despite ignoring each other for 3 hours, the dogs were exhausted after their visit.  They didn’t exactly play but at least they tolerated each other’s presence.  That’s a start!

Do you have tips on how to help shy and skittish dogs to feel more comfortable around other dogs?  If so, tell us in the comments.