Pet Care
Fearful Dogs
Puppies that are not socialized with adults and children during the first few months of life can develop a strong fear of people and be very resistant to change. Some fearful tendencies can be inherited from the parents. Unpleasant experiences can lead to a fear of people. Medical problems could also affect behavior. No matter what has caused this fear of people, you can teach your dog to be relaxed when he is around people. You have to have control of situations when your pet is around people to allow him to be relaxed and feel less threatened. You want this to be a positive experience. Doing this frequently will allow your pet to learn to look forward to being around people.
Mistakes can and will be made. Do not force socialization on your dog. He needs to be comfortable around people and it must be done gradually. If your pet is shaking or is distressed, do not encourage visitors to come up and reach for him. Some dogs become aggressive if they feel trapped, such as being held or on a leash. Consoling him when he growls fearfully is only reinforcing this behavior.
Do not raise your voice, act anxious, or use punishment of any type. The goal is to condition the dog to want to be around people. Anything unpleasant during these sessions will make matters worse.
Instruct visitors on how to react around the dog. Your dog will prefer to approach people who are sitting or squatting, makes little to no eye contact, and keeps his hands to his side. A quiet tone of voice and slow movements are very important. Holding him on a tight leash or holding the dog will make him more nervous as he will feel confined.
In the beginning, avoid taking your dog to crowded areas and confine him to a quiet room when there will be a lot of company in the home. Food treats can help him warm up to people.
For most dogs, socialization should begin where he is most comfortable such as in his home or yard. Having trained your dog to sit on command makes things easier. Have an unfamiliar person stand far enough away from your dog so that he is not anxious. Have your dog sit and give him a treat when he sees the person. Gradually have the person move closer, step by step, and continue to give your dog treats as he stays relaxed. Be sure to take things slowly and end the session on a positive note.
Later, condition your dog to become comfortable with quicker movements and different voice tones. If your dog is overly aggressive, you may need to seek the assistance of a behavior specialist.
There are some things about different people that make some pets nervous. Beards, glasses, hats, carried objects, uniforms, canes, wheel chairs and tones of voice can be some of these things. Tune into your pet to find out if he reacts to any of these things and begin your sessions slowly, with someone who does not have the thing he’s most nervous about. Gradually introduce various items and praise your dog for continuing to stay relaxed.
Puppy classes and obedience classes are an excellent way to provide dogs with socialization with a variety of people, dogs, and environments.
If you are experiencing difficult behavior with your puppy or adult dog, please contact us. Most problem behaviors can be corrected. We want to help and encourage a happy and healthy relationship for you and your dog for many years to come.
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