Note from Con Slobodchikoff: This is a guest post by Beatrix Potter.
Not only is she an avid writer at Academized.com and Professional Essay Writing Service writing services, but Beatrix Potter also enjoys writing about dogs and their health. This makes her passionate about sharing her knowledge with other avid writers and dog lovers. She also serves the community by providing tutoring services at Custom Essay website.
Have you ever wondered why some dogs run in fear from a vacuum while others chase it like they are best friends? The reality is, just like people, dogs develop behaviors and personalities similar to the way people do. They see the world and how it interacts, and then they develop a curiosity or fear for certain things. Because highly nervous dogs have developed nerves as a behavioral trait, there are quite a few ways you can help direct them into feeling more secure.
The precaution I would give before attempting any of these practices is to keep in mind that this is a process. You want to be patient and understanding. If you push your dog too far, you may worsen their behavior instead of improving it. Take it one day at a time. The goal is to have your dog trust you more than it fears other things.
Bring it Back to the Basics
Like I said earlier, this is a process, and so your first step should always be to start with something simple. For some, you can work on behavior training on a short walk, with other more nervous dogs, you may want to practice simple commands in an area that the dog is comfortable. This will build a bond between you and your dog that is crucial to the trusting process of building their confidence.
If you are taking a walk, take note of the things that spook your dog and as you embark on the journey be prepared to train as you go. If cars turning onto your neighborhood set your dog off, try to see the vehicle coming first, and before the vehicle reaches you, work on commands like “sit” or “look at me” rewarded with treats. This will distract the dog and establish trust with you and the passing car.
Try Something New
Once you can get your dog to obey basic commands and have confidence in your guidance, you will want to move on to something a little scarier and a newer. Taking them to the pet store, vet, or dog park are great places to introduce them to an array of fears that need to be addressed. While there focus on things that distract them and show them, they have nothing to be concerned about.
Remember, at this stage, not to force them into situations that terrify them and cause them to revert to erratic or aggressive tendencies. There is no point in this process where you release them in a room filled with running vacuums or mailmen, hoping you will scare the nerves out of them. Instead this is where you put the built trust to the test and gauge where they are at in the process.
Encourage Safety but Not Reckless Fear
Most nervous pets have the same tendency as small children. When they feel threatened or worried, they will revert to hiding behind you for protection and comfort. Instead of forcing them out from behind you and breaking that bond of trust they have with you, teach them to feel soothed and safe in this position. This command is often referred to as “get behind.” When your dog starts to show signs of nervousness and fright, use this command to have them move somewhere, they feel safe. Here they can relax while you demonstrate how safe the environment truly is.
The biggest take away here is that you have to be ready to be patient and work with your individual dog’s needs. To build confidence in them, you must be willing to take longer walks than usual and guide them to a place that feels secure. It may sound like a lot of work, but it all becomes worth it when you can do everyday activities without worrying about how your dog is going to respond. The hard work leads to comfort and a bond that cannot be bought.
Comments