How to Calm a Fearful Dog

By dlmiller

Instructions

Prepare to Train

Step 1:
Train your dog using only positive methods. Any training that includes physical corrections or punishments might make him more fearful. Some dogs react poorly to even vocal punishment. Training will strengthen your position as the leader and your dog’s trust in you while teaching him important skills.
Step 2:
Make training a fun, stress-free activity. Use a pleasant voice, include lots of treats and praise, and make learning a game for your pup. Train in short sessions so your dog doesn’t get overwhelmed or frustrated, and always end sessions on a positive note. If you are teaching a command that your dog just hasn’t gotten yet, revert to commands he knows before you end the session.
Step 3:
Join a training group or class. This will help you learn the best way to train your dog, while teaching him to learn and relax in a group setting.
Step 4:
Identify what your dog fears. Then work to desensitize your dog. For example, if your dog is afraid of thunder, you might get a CD of thunder sounds and play it at gradually increasing levels, while giving your dog rewards for calm, confident behavior.

Calm Your Dog Around People

Step 1:
Let your dog hide when he is afraid. Your dog should always have a “safe” place where he can go and you will not bother him. For many dogs this might be in his crate or under a bed or table.
Step 2:
Have the “scary” people sit or lie on the floor, while ignoring the dog.
Step 3:
Give the dog treats and praise when he comes closer to the “scary” people.
Step 4:
Establish eye contact with the dog only after he initiates interaction.
Step 5:
Have the “scary” person feed your dog by hand, or at least provide the dog with his food.

Calming Around Other Dogs

Step 1:
Walk your dog near other dogs. Figure out how far away he must be to feel comfortable. Tell him to sit. Treat and praise him when he acts calm. Then, gradually move closer to the other dogs. This might take several weeks, but eventually you should be able to move much closer without your pup being fearful. This method also works well with strange objects your dog might fear, such as skateboards.
Step 2:
Invite a doggie friend, who is well-behaved and calm, to your house. Let your dog meet this new dog. Watch carefully as they interact and play. Reward positive interaction. Separate the dogs if there is aggressive behavior and consult a professional trainer.
Step 3:
Tell your dog to sit before meeting a new dog and then proceed when he is calm. When walking past a new dog, let them sniff one another only briefly before moving on.
Step 4:
Hold the leash loosely when your dog encounters another dog. If you pull on the leash, your dog will feel restrained, which could exacerbate his emotions

Calming in New Places

Step 1:
Take your dog for walks often. The exercise and exposure to new smells and sounds will help him become more confident. Be a strong leader while you walk to develop trust between you.
Step 2:
Take your dog with you wherever you can, especially when he is young. A young dog will become more confident and used to new surroundings quicker than an older dog. Give him lots of praise and rewards for being brave.
Step 3:
Remove your dog if he seems overly stressed or anxious. At first, short trips are best as a long time in a new place can be overwhelming.

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