Fearfulness is common in dogs! There are multiple factors that contribute to a dog being scared, ranging from loud sounds like thunder or fireworks, health conditions, pregnancy, trauma, type breed and even certain factors like change of environment or residence. There are also multiple ways you can calm your dog’s fears without the intervention of a behavioural therapist or trainer. It is advisable to try these methods before turning to a new person which may even add to your dog’s fears. Lots of Cuddles: dogs are naturally social animals, they love company and they love the company of their humans the most. Hugs, cuddles, belly rubs and chin scratches are usually their favourite type of physical contact. However, it is important to try and find the source of these fears and once you do, it’s time for a good long cuddle session. Massage time: massage doesn’t just calm people, as a technique, it works on people too. If your dog is naturally fearful, then set a massage time so they look forward to it and know they are going to enjoy one on one time with their human, if they have a trigger then plan a quick massage time to alleviate their fear. Start gently around the neck and work downward with long, soft strokes. Keep one hand on your dog to keep them secure, while the other hand does the massage. Over time you will be able to identify where your dog holds stress and just work on that one particular area. Supplements: if your dog is anxious and scared very often without triggers then it’s time to discuss
supplements with your vet. Certain natural and chemical supplements work very well in scared dogs, scared dogs can often turn violent too so it’s better to keep these supplements handy. From hemp seed natural supplements to certain medication that can be administered at triggering times like thunderstorms or shifting homes.
Be a Leader: the natural instinct of a dog is to treat his humans as a part of his pack. From early on in the relationship you have to establish one person in the family as the leader of the pack, the pet cannot take on that role or else they will never be completely obedient. The leader is instrumental in calming a dog when it is scared, the leader can speak in a high pitched voice, be commanding with comforting words so the dog feels protected and secure.If none of these techniques work then it is best to address this situation with professionals.Sometimes skittish dogs can become a handful and be more trouble than joy for a family and since we all love our dogs; it is even harder to find a solution to comfort them.
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