Dog who act skittish and insecure around people
and other dogs, were usually not socialized when they were young. Often puppies
that were taken from their siblings and mother before they were 8 weeks old
never learned how to “be” around members of their own species without being
anxious. And without the guidance of their canine mother, these pups often grow
up to be adults without conflict
resolution skills, or the confidence that they can handle whatever situation
they encounter. If a dog is kept in the sterile environment of a backyard or kennel, they
can also become extremely nervous when they are finally exposed to everyday
sounds and movement considered a normal part of the outside world.
Because this
type of social deprivation occurs during a dog’s formative months and years, it
often takes a long time to resolve, but it can be done. Be patient and mindful
that your dog’s rehabilitation will be a “process,” not a quick fix.
As a pack
leader, your job will be to control the interactions your dog has with other
humans when you’re walking her. People often try to “negotiate” with shy dogs,
and move in to them with affection when the dog isn’t ready to meet them. This
only pushes a fearful dog back. Instead, politely tell others that your dog is
“in training,” and ask them to ignore her. This means no touching, no talking,
and no eye contact. This will allow your dog to relax because she doesn’t fell
pressured to make friends with a stranger.
If you continue
to socialize with your friends in a non-threatening manner to your dog, she may
eventually begin to move closer to them or begin to smell them. This is a very
positive sign, and the natural way for dogs to meet others—“nose first.” Remind
your friends that this is not the time to reach out and pet your dog, because
that can send her right back into her shell again. Remember, just because she
is ready to smell, doesn’t mean she’s ready to be touched.
Since you can’t
control the type of dogs you might find at a dog park, consider meeting up with
friends with balanced dogs instead. Practice walking together without pushing
the dogs to become friends right away. Allow your dog to experience the ancient
ritual of migrating with other canines. Try to practice this several times a
week.
When your dog hears noises that startle her, don’t
nurture her fears by comforting her. Continue moving forward—you are a pack
leader migrating forward with a member of your pack—in control and in charge!
When you project this kind of energy, rather than address your dog’s nervous
state of mind, she will begin to trust you more and more. The more leadership you show her, the sooner she’ll
become a balanced and confident dog!(Adopted from www.cesarsway.com)
