Shakin’ Dog

Remaining clam whilst a dog is fearful can help it to overcome what is scaring him but some folks are tempted to give affection in that moment to reassure the dog.  Unfortunately the dog merely perceives it as a reward for their current state of mind, so they’re thinking ‘Oh, being scared is what is should be doing according to my owner.’

What they need most at that time from us is to be a leader and not to share that same fear.  If they detect we are fearful too they may see the need to step up their role as protector.

When being a leader you do not have to dominate your dog.  It’s just a matter of showing them ‘there is another way to respond’.  Whether it’s the wheelie bin or strange people they don’t like the best approach is to introduce the ‘scary thing’ from a safe distance or low exposure to begin with so that the dog doesn’t feel like it has to deal with it immediately.  Gradually with training you build tolerance and positive association to the ‘scary thing.’

 

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)