Know how to socialize a shy dog
Is your canine companion really enjoying the dog run? This is a question we wish people would ask themselves. More often than not, we see dogs cowering under a bench or clearly asking their person to leave, but instead of listening to their dog they push them, literally, farther into the pack.
Yes, dogs are pack animals; however, we must listen to what our dogs are telling us. Dog parks should not be used as a place for us to socialize with other people only to the detriment of our pets. Some dogs are great with other canines; some are not.
Socialization Starts Early
Early socialization plays a monumental role in a dog’s ability to interact with people and other canines. Without these learned skills as a puppy, chances are your dog will not see going to the park as a fun activity but rather one to be frightened or nervous of. This can turn into aggression in your dog if not properly dealt with.
It takes patience to help your dog feel comfortable around other canines if your dog is bashful and lacking social skills. Desensitizing a frightened dog is necessary if you’re to teach your canine companion to play with other dogs.
This video gives a brief overview of what’s required to condition a fearful dog, using the technique of “applying pressure” then backing away without eye contact:
How to Socialize a Shy Dog
Now we’ll look at some socializing tips. To start with, find a friend’s dog that is calm and not overbearing with your dog for private play sessions in a quiet, safe environment, one without lots of noise.
Watch how the dogs interact. Is your pup approaching the other one willingly? Are they sniffing each other with relaxed body language? If your dog tells the friend to back off, does it? Any dog that is timid or fearful needs to be around dogs that know how to play and will leave her alone.
Dogs have their own language, and we must listen to what they are saying. Forcing a shy dog to be around other dogs that are running around, barking and having a great time can be very scary. This dog may get used to dogs playing and become curious on her own, but often this is not the case.
Exposing a timid dog slowly to good experiences like being around a calm, well-socialized dog can sometimes bring it out of its shell. Just make sure you listen to what your pet is telling you and go at her own pace.
Additional Resources
- She Whisperer: Aggression in dogs
- I Heart Paws: How to work with a timid dog
- PetSafe: How to train a shy or anxious dog
Photo: bullcitydogs/Flickr.com
