Fear of Strangers: Tips for Socializing Scared Dog
The fluffy cheeks and button-eyed friend who sprinkles the sweet glitter of magic in every space they occupy at your heavenly abode are adorable. Dogs are naturally the most lovable creatures. Like humans, socializing forms an integral part of the well-being of dogs. To be an active member of the canine community, dogs need to be able to mingle with other animals and pets happily and amicably socially. Unsocialized dogs can grow up to show aggressive tendencies born out of fear and anxiety. Not associating with their vicinity and its creatures can pose significant hurdles for your dog. Socialized dogs tend to tune in perfectly with the ambience of the outside world filled with other animals, people, noise and commotion.
Ideally, the socialization process should be installed in the initial years itself. In the early phase, dogs can be tamed to become more social and amicable with their surroundings and fit in better. However, grooming your puppy to mingle with its social periphery is always possible.
How to Socialize Your Scared Dog
Walks can go a long way with your Fearful Dogs
Growing a habit takes time and effort, but the nags start to bug you a little less once you are habituated. Taking your puppy for a daily walk can help them familiarize themselves with the surroundings and denizens. The buzz of automobiles and the stir of modern-day avenues wouldn’t make your dog uneasy once they have gotten used to the same. To keep things exciting, you can keep changing the route now and then. This way, they can be exposed to various smells and sights.
At a pace that feels safe with your scared dog
While venturing on the socialization journey, try to keep the process manageable. Let the opportunity present for your puppy to interact with everyone around them, and try not to force this mingling. Stroll around in the parks and places your dog likes and feels comfortable in. The socialization should come naturally to your pet and not be arbitrarily channelled. Unwanted interactions would only lead to fear-based aggressions and induce unsettling behaviours.
Positive Reinforcement for Your Fearful Dogs
Attempts at calming your pup at the display of fearsome behaviours and whinging can be mistaken for rewards by your pet. Thus, it’s advisable to avoid those. However, when they show positive behaviours, you can bestow them with treats afterwards.
Private Trainings
Although the socialization process involves interaction with humans and other animals, ideally, it’s preferable to conduct private training sessions. Basic etiquette and obedience can be acquired much more efficiently with one-on-one teaching. This would also nourish the bond between the parent and the pet, which can help tackle a more cacophonous situation better.
Simple always suitable
Often, great things are achieved with mere simple tactics. Try to tone things down and efficiently. Start by exposing menial and little articles with different shapes, sights, and smells to your pooch. Opening up an umbrella, flying disc and other essential things can excite and interest your dog profoundly.
The socialization process is vital for your dog to help them cope with the world confidently and not shudder with fear in social settings. Always ensure your dog remains in a comfortable and calm zone while exploring this avenue. Stay tuned to JaldeeVets Blog to thrive on your journey as a pet parent.