One of the new friends that I made at the Lehigh Valley Kennel Club Match Show on Sunday was this handsome German Shepherd Dog.  I stopped to chat with his owner and she asked me not to pet him.  This sweet dog is fearful whenever someone approaches them with their hand extended over him, which is what happens in the show ring when the judge is examining the dogs.  So, he was at the show to try and overcome that fear and trust that no one will hurt him.  While I was chatting with his owner, I could see the dog looking at me and little by little he came closer and sniffed my hand.  I turned my hand palm up and he sniffed some more.  He even touched my hand with his nose.  Every time he did well, his owner would tell him that he was a good boy and give him a small treat.  All the while I was talking to him and telling him how handsome he was, too.   Before long he was leaning up against me, sitting on my foot, and I was able to pet his back and scratch his neck.  We made great progress together and he was as sweet as could be!  His owner thanked me for helping him learn to trust again.  I was so happy to help and hope to see this beautiful dog winning ribbons in the show ring before long!