How To Help A Fearful Dog

Melton Times – Published February 2017

It can be really distressing to see a dog that’s very frightened and nervous. These dogs are in a constant state of panic and will run or hide if they get the chance. Their body language is very telling - their ears will be flat back, body low and will hesitate or even pull away from anything that frightens them. They can get quite agitated facing something they are uncomfortable with.

What causes a dog to behave in this way! often it is because the dog did not get adequate socialisation as a puppy. Dogs coming out of puppy farms, fore$ample, may never have been e$posed to humans, the outside world or even grass. Rescue dogs from abroad may have had negative experiences of humans or never lived inside a home. It is possible to help these dogs but it can be a long process and it must be approached delicately. 

The most important thing is to build the dog’s self-esteem and confidence slowly. The way to do it is to help your dog repeatedly achieve small tasks. Start with simple obedience training in the house and set your dog up to succeed by not giving anything too challenging at first. Gradually build on the basics and repeat, repeat, repeat. Give gentle praise and a treat as a reward. Move on to a little obstacle course, and again set her up for success. Every small success will build help to build her confidence.

When she is ready, move to the garden and practice games and training there. Then finally move on to the outside world, keeping your sessions short and fun, close to home at first. It can take a lot of time and patience but it can be very rewarding to see your dog’s self-esteem blossom. 

You also need to be a good role model; we know that dogs pick up on how we are feeling. If you feel anxious or very sorry for her she will pick up on this straightaway. If you remain calm and assertive she will learn to trust you and you can help her to relax and enjoy herself.

If you are unsure then please ask your Vet or a behaviourist for help.