Fears

Fears can be tricky. They can come on at any time and you may never figure out what triggered them. Most dogs at one time or another develop a fear of something whether it is another dog, a person or an object. You shouldn't assume that if your dog doesn't fear something right now that it won't ever happen.

Prevention

Expose your puppy or dog to new sights, sounds, people, dogs, other animals, kids, temperatures, noise levels, surfaces, etc. as much and as often as possible. This will build his overall confidence.

Recognizing a fearful dog

The most common signals a fearful dog will exhibit are:

• tail between the legs
• flattened ears
• excessive panting
• drooling
• whimpering
• shaking
• cowering
• frequent yawning
• hiding
• refusal to take food

Handling a fearful dog

There are many conflicting opinions about whether or not to comfort a dog in a fearful or anxious state. What should you do? Completely ignore your dog and let him deal with it by himself? Or make a big deal about it, feel sorry for him and in essence agree with his fear? Neither one of these options is very productive. Strive for something in between.

At the end of the day, you have to do what is right for you and your dog. Whatever you choose, how you feel is very important. If you feel bad and anxious, then your dog will pick up on those feelings. It's best to remain calm and relaxed.

Distraction

If your dog’s fear is minor (for example he gets anxious during a storm), you can engage him with a tasty treat, a command, a toy or some play time. Choose something your dog really enjoys to increase your chances of distracting him. All dogs have different likes so get to know what your dog’s favourite things are.

Massage

Massage can help relax an anxious dog. Start slowly with light, gentle long strokes from his head to tail. Once you feel him relax, make small circular motions with your fingers over his body and face. Massaging your dog has other benefits other than relaxing him. It’s important for dogs to be comfortable with human touch, especially when it’s time to go to the vet. It’s also a good opportunity for you to check for any abnormalities or lumps. Please note that a deep tissue massage requires knowledge of a dog’s anatomy and should only be given by a professional. Keep it gentle!

Desensitization

Expose your dog little by little to whatever he is afraid of. If your dog is afraid of the vacuum cleaner, start by giving treats, affection or a toy beside it while it’s turned off (only when your dog is relaxed around the object). Repeat this for several days before even turning it on. Then slowly graduate to adding the sound. This could take many tries but don’t give up.

* Always lead your dog to the object he fears, never push him towards it.

Confidence

Build your dog's overall confidence level with exercises like agility or doing obstacles. It’s good to take your dog downtown where there is noise of traffic, people and bicycles going by and different sights and smells. Reward your dog for being calm in new situations.

Trust

It may be time to go back to basics and practice your leadership skills. Pack animals naturally follow and trust their leader. It is important to have a bond with your dog. He has to trust that you will keep him safe and protected. Are you the leader?

Patience

Never yell or punish your dog for being afraid. You will only add to your dog’s fear.

Separation Anxiety

Does your dog have separation anxiety?

Dogs are social animals and don't like to be separated from their pack; that's why it's so important to treat coming and going as no big deal.

We now realize the way we treat our dogs has a direct connection to separation anxiety. Often our dogs are cuddled too much, spoiled and have no rules. Our intentions may be good but the results may be anything but.

Your Dog's Basic Needs

All dogs need plenty of exercise every day, mental stimulation and rules to follow. Of course it's important to show your dog affection, but affection is not just about hugging and petting. You can give your dog a massage, a toy, a game of fetch, the occasional treat and a calm environment. Remember affection should only be given when your dog is exhibiting a behaviour you agree with.

Prevent Separation Anxiety

Never pay attention to your dog when leaving or first returning home. The goal is for it to be no big deal that you come and go. This can be a real challenge for people. Just keep in mind that you will be helping your dog cope with your absence if you act more nonchalant about it.

Exercise also makes a big difference. Start the day with a long walk (try for a minimum of 30 minutes). This has wonderful benefits for you too! When you get home, feed your dog and calmly go about your business of getting ready to leave. You don't have to say goodbye, you won't hurt her feelings. You can leave the house feeling good that you have fulfilled your dog's needs for exercise, food and rest. Isn't that better than feeling guilty for leaving?

If you have a high energy dog, a 30 minute walk might not be enough. You will either have to increase the time or increase the intensity of those 30 minutes. You can do that by jogging, rollerblading or biking with your dog. Or find obstacles to go around or climb over such as big rocks, picnic tables or benches. Walking different routes will also add extra mental stimulation (new smells and sights). Maybe even end your walk with a game of fetch in the park or your backyard.

Confidence Building Exercises

Next time you are out walking find a place where you can safely tie your dog's leash. Walk out of your dog's sight for a few minutes. If your dog whines or barks while you are gone use a verbal correction "shh" in an assertive tone and walk calmly back to her. Continue on your walk and try again at another tree or bench. Once your dog successfully waits for you calmly, you can praise her. It could take many tries but don't give up. Your dog's confidence will build over time.

Also practice going out of the house for short periods of time.  Go out the front door, return by the back door. Do not talk to your dog during this exercise and always remain calm. Remember you can interrupt if she barks or whines with "shh" (or whatever works for you). Your assertive tone is more important that the actual sound or word you use.

Serious Cases of Separation Anxiety

If your dog's anxiety is so severe that she is damaging things and trying to get out of your house, you may consider a crate while you are working on the issue. If you do this you have to gradually get her used to it. This could take days or weeks. A crate should be a safe haven for a dog, not a confinement or punishment. So please if you are going this route, take the time to introduce it properly. And never put your dog in his crate in a rush, it'll benefit you both to be calm about it.

Greeting Cards for Dog Lovers

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Ecards
Dog Ecards