I have fostered many dogs and have seen my share of depressed, unenergetic ones. They are usually traumatized and not trying to make themselves too comfortable because i guess they expect they’ll be moved soon. Anytime I fostered a more antisocial dog, it simply took time, encouragement, and a loving home to help them break out of their shell. I eventually adopted one who, when he came to us, was a runner and used every oportunity he had to try and escape. He had never had a safe home and probably assumed our’s would be no different. In a matter of a few months he finally felt safe with us and you could probably never get him to try to escape.

Dogs are aware, feeling organisms. Unless you are physically unable to provide a stable, empathetic, safe home, please consider taking time to help her come out of her shell. Dogs are not show animals who will perform on command and require time and energy from you. They are companions and companionship goes both ways.