Training a Fearful Dog: Building Trust and Safety for Dixie

Title: Helping a Fearful Dog Overcome Running Away

Many pet owners face challenges when dealing with a fearful dog who constantly runs away. This behavior can be distressing and dangerous, especially if the dog escapes and doesn’t respond to calls. One concerned pet owner, Bobbie, reached out for help with her newly adopted fearful terrier mix, Dixie.

Dixie’s background as a former breeder dog has left her with deep-seated fear and avoidance behaviors. She only feels safe approaching Bobbie and her husband when they are in bed at night, showing signs of extreme fear and anxiety in other situations. Bobbie is worried about Dixie’s safety and wants to help her learn essential commands like “stay” for her own well-being.

Expert advice from Sam Freeman, a certified dog trainer, emphasizes the importance of adjusting expectations when working with fearful dogs. Fearful dogs like Dixie have a low fear threshold and may lack proper socialization, leading to their anxious behaviors. Building trust and a sense of safety is crucial before attempting obedience training.

To help Dixie feel secure and prevent escape attempts, Freeman recommends creating a safe environment at home with blockades and removing hiding spots. Using a dragline or leash when supervising Dixie allows for gentle guidance and prevents her from running away. This gradual approach helps normalize human interaction and build trust over time.

While treats can be beneficial in training, Freeman advises against pressuring Dixie with food rewards. Hand-feeding or placing treats near her in non-threatening situations can help build positive associations. Teaching commands like “come” and “stay” will require patience and a focus on trust-building before moving forward with obedience training.

Overall, working with a fearful dog like Dixie requires dedication, understanding, and a long-term commitment to her well-being. By creating a safe environment, building trust, and using gentle guidance, Bobbie can help Dixie overcome her fears and learn to trust humans again.

For more information on pet behavior solutions and training, visit Sam Freeman’s website at petbehaviorsolutions.com.