TIMID OR SHY DOGS

Some dogs are boisterous, outgoing and brave. Others are more timid and shy. Just like people, each dog has their own personality. Sometimes these differences can be a matter of genetics (nature), or can be learned through their life experiences (nurture). Whether it’s nature, nurture, or a combination of both, you can help your timid or shy dog to become more confident.

Dogs who are skittish or fearful can often suffer from behavior problems such as separation anxiety, excessive barking, or chewing.

If fears escalate enough, these pets can sometimes become fear biters… displaying aggressive behavior due to their perceived need for self defense.

In mild cases, skittish or timid dogs simply miss out on lots of the fun stuff in life! Instead of getting petted by dog loving visitors, they may choose to hide in a corner. Instead of enjoying jaunts to the park or tousling with other dogs, they may instead cower or avoid those situations.

If your dog is timid or shy, you can help your pet by using some obedience training, socialization, and confidence building exercises. By working on basic commands, you’ll have the opportunity to praise your dog for learning something new. This can be an excellent confidence builder.

Agility can also boost confidence. Learning to jump, climb or weave, (formerly ’scary’ exercises), can really help skittish dogs to become more self-assured. You can either find an agility class to join, or create some simple activities of your own. Even something as basic as getting your pet to jump over a small piece of wood, which you gradually make higher, can make a big difference. Praise lavishly!

Last but not least, be sure never to pet your dog while afraid. For example, if you pet your dog while he’s shying away from a visitor, he’ll think you’re praising him for being scared. He will not feel soothed. Instead, gently tell him "No", and help him to behave more naturally by doing some obedience commands, playing ball, or some other common activity. Praise your dog after he’s acting more relaxed, and encourage him to receive a treat or a pat from your friend.

article by freedogtraininginfo.com

Training benefits

A trained dog has more freedom and is generally happier because her owner trusts her more and restricts her less.

A trained dog better understands his roles and responsibilities in the "pack" and is therefore more confident.

Generally, a trained dog has a better chance of staying with its owners because dogs that are unfortunately given away to shelters are usually dogs that have developed various forms of behavioral problems due to lack of training.

A trained dog is always more welcome in all social settings because he is better behaved and under control.

A trained dog can serve many purposes inside and outside the home such as family protection, searching and tracking, etc.

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