Why are some dogs afraid of everything?
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2 reasons: lacking socialization or a weak nervous system.
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Dogs with lacking socialization were ordinary puppies, but weren’t introduced to the city with its noises and people, so they seem dangerous to them.
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And a weak nervous system isn’t capable of handling many external stimuli at a time.
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All puppies are scared of going outside at first, but with time they get to know that it’s fun and safe. But puppies with a weak nervous system can’t learn that, because their brain “turns off” when it’s “overloaded”.
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What are shy dogs usually afraid of?
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They are often comfortable in a calm, familiar place.
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Dogs with lacking socialization feel good there because they were socialized in these places from puppyhood, and those with a weak nervous system – because there aren’t many stimuli there, and they can learn these places are safe.
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Both types are uncomfortable in a noisy city with everchanging environment. They may get scared of cars, screaming children…
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How to help a cowardly dog?
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3 directions in which work with such dogs runs:
▪ decreasing stress levels,
▪ boosting confidence,
▪ overcoming fears.
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They are interlinked. You can’t work on one thing without working on another – you’ll see no result.
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What are the exercises?
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1) Teaching relaxation on a mat.
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2) Mental and physical exercises.
Mental: search games + brainteasers with food.
Shy dogs see with eyes/ears, so it’s important to teach them to work with their noses. This way, you’ll teach your dog a new way to relax and interact with the world.
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Physical activities: body balance exercises, which help relieve stress and build confidence.
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3) Clicker-shaping
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4) Getting to know new things
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Itroduce new smells, sights and sounds daily. Play quiet road noises bad etc while your pet is eating. Let him smell your groceries. Walk on different surfaces…
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Make sure your pup is enjoying getting to know new things. Don’t overwork your pet, if he’s anxious, stop the exercise. Better do less and finish on a positive note than work too much and finish on a negative one.
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5) Fear-specific work
