For instance, it would be natural and appropriate for your dog to be fearful in a situation in which he is approached by a stranger in a threatening manner. If anyone she doesn't know comes into the house she will bark at them even after they have been in the house for 1 minute. Especially maintenance men. It helps if you have a spot, such as a quiet room, for the dog where it knows it will be left alone. Take your dog for a walk past a school or daycare while children are outside. Basket muzzles (or any muzzle) are best used as guided by a certified trainer or veterinarian who can assure they are only used for limited periods, in appropriate situations, and with a proper fit. Obedience training can be very helpful in managing fearful behavior and relieving some of your dog's stress. Because dogs that are afraid of strangers may bite out of fear, it's your job to make sure that everyone stays safe around your dog. Dogs and Destructive Chewing – Correcting the Problem. Always a debate between nature and nurture, shyness can be a debilitating trait for dog and owner, making both apprehensive about daily walks, trips to the dog park, and even inviting others into the home. Shyness can be cause by genetics, physical ailments, or lack of socialization as a puppy. Step 10: You can add as many variables as you need, depending on what your dog is afraid of. On first meeting, there should be no eye contact or touching; the stranger should act disinterested in your dog. She has written more than 100 articles on dogs. Many people assume that when a dog is fearful or shy, he has suffered some kind of abuse or trauma. It is extremely important to remain upbeat and positive during these training sessions, as your dog will feed off of your mood. Some dogs are more afraid of men than women. Typically the sooner a trainer is involved with a fearful pet, the better. For some pets, they may set up a specific desensitization and training plan. A shy or timid dog is more likely to produce skittish offspring. Suddenly he's shying away from any stranger who tries to touch him and hiding from them whenever he can. (Only do this if you are sure your pet will not bite). You can correct your dog for not obeying a command, but do not punish for fearful behavior, as this will only increase anxiety. Early socialization is essential to prevent fear in dogs. Men can be more intimidating in a dog's eyes. Subscribe my Newsletter for new blog posts, tips & new photos. When your dog is scared of strangers, it is usually a sign of low confidence. A lack of proper socialization as a puppy is another reason some dogs fear strangers. 1.5 year old dog suddenly afraid of strangers [help] Help! Once your dog does approach, the person should continue to avoid eye contact and make slow, non-threatening movements. All Right Reserved. Get our FREE training guide when you sign up for the Spruce Pets newsletter! Or he or she may recommend at-home training with a certified dog trainer (CDPDT). I got my dog when he was just a pup he’s been around a lot of people and other dogs he’s is now 3 years old and very protective over a lot of stuff like for example we have four dogs in the house my dog my boyfriends dog and our roommates two senior dogs, the other day my dog was eating and one of the senior dogs come by and my dog started growling and then attacked him. If your dog is afraid of children, hats, or loud noises, begin to expose him to just those things, in very small doses at first. Removing your dog from potentially fearful situations is perfectly acceptable especially if it will help keep both visitors and your dog safe. For instance, “Suddenly, out of the blue, my dog started barking at strangers.” It’s the same when you have new guests over to the house. Depending on your dog's reaction, working with a certified dog behaviorist to help identify cues and management strategies to practice is be very helpful. Muzzles are never to be used for punishment and nylon or cloth muzzles are not recommended outside a veterinary office because dogs can not pant well through them, which can lead to emergent situations. This problem is getting worse and worse this year. One dog may simply cower in a corner in the presence of a stranger. Whenever anyone new comes to visit, have the person completely ignore the dog. In addition, my scottie nipped many hands as strangers would reach out to touch her. He is a pretty anxious dog he is scared of loud noises and shy. But your dog has developed an unfortunate fear of strangers and will be a nightmare at such an event. When you're away, … My new german shepherd i got about 2 weeks ago has just turned 6 months old. If … My Italian Greyhound-terrier mix has always been friendly and until a few weeks ago he loved meeting new people. But some pets form such a tight bond that they … This can result in your tensing up or tightening your hold on its leash. For health-related questions, always consult your veterinarian, as they have examined your pet, know the pet's health history, and can make the best recommendations for your pet.