Training Tips: My Dog is Scared of Me 

Seeing a scared dog can be heartbreaking.  A dog owner should not want their dog to be afraid of them.  Sometimes it can make the dog owner feel completely helpless, without a clue of what to do.  If you are a dog owner and think that your dog fears you, we are happy to help!  This article will go over some important aspects of fearful dog training and help you learn how to approach the situation.

Sometimes recognizing a timid dog can be a bit of a challenge.  Thankfully, there are clear signs to look for to identify the problem.  One thing that you should know is that scared dogs tend to communicate through body language.  You will need to identify the non-verbal cues.  Some of the most common cues are flat ears, tail tucked between hind legs, and avoidance of eye contact.  If it is severe, your dog may drool, tremble, or even pant with excess nervousness.

When thinking of ways to help a fearful dog gain confidence, the first thing that people normally do is try to comfort the dog.  This may not be the best idea to tackle the issue in full force.  This will encourage fear and make them think that their behavior will be rewarded.  It is best to desensitize the dog to the fear by exposing them to it in a controlled setting.  You may need to ask for help from a reputable dog trainer as this is more of an advanced technique.  If done incorrectly, it could lead to an increased fear response.

When dealing with fearful dogs, it may be a challenge to find a solution, especially when your dog is afraid of you.  However, you must understand why the dog is afraid, know how to recognize it, what to avoid, and help your canine friend overcome their fear in no time!