Shy Dogs

Not all dogs are lively bundles of inquisitive boldness. Not all puppies dash straight into yours and everyone else's arms. Dogs are like people. There are brassy dogs, noisy dogs, quiet dogs and shy dogs. Shy dogs, the timid ones, require a different approach than their bolder cousins.

Above all, you need to remember two words when you have a shy dog. These are gentleness and patience. If you do not have or cannot develop these qualities, you should not purchase, foster or puppy sit a shy dog. Shy dogs need all your patience and gentleness if they are to become your companion animal. They require serenity and tenderness in deed and movement. Can you fulfill these necessities in your new pet's life?

The first thing you need to do is to make your shy dog feel safe. Create a secure place just for them. This can be the corner of a room. It can also be a specific room. More commonly, you can choose a crate. Supply the hidey-hole with comfortable blankets. Make sure there are toys and other items personal for this dog. Make sure it is the property of this dog and this dog alone. Since some dogs feel safer with their back against the wall, you might want to place the crate accordingly.

If you are just getting to know the dog, do not make sudden movements. Any motions towards the dog you do make must be slow and very gradual. Do not make jerky or sudden motions. This will only create a set back in the process. In fact, if you are wise, let the canine make the first move. Do not rush it. She or he needs to trust you.

Extend your hand towards the dog. If the dog sniffs it, do not make a move to pat the head. Wait. If she or he allows you to touch her, make it a belly or chin pat. If the dog moves away, let her go.

While you are in the presence of the dog, talk. Be careful in your tone. Your voice should be soft and pleasant. It needs to be warm and welcoming. Remove and sense of threat or fear. Make it upbeat. Talk all the time. This will help the dog adjust and listen for your voice.

At meal times, you may want to try hand feeding. This will increase the sense of security and safety. Do not, however, make it obligatory. Your dog must be able to eat without the sense it must eat from your hand. If you try hand feeding, adopt the same approach for approaching your dog. Be still. Remain frozen in place. Sit on the floor. This will seem non-threatening. Such a position is even more important if you have a small shy dog.

With shy dogs, it is important to establish and maintain a routine. If you stick to it, you provide your dog with an increased sense of security. A secure dog will trust you more. A secure dog will not develop into a fear biter.

Work confidence-building activities into your dog's daily pattern. This may be completing a simple task. Your dog may fetch, sit, or allow petting. Praise him or her all the while.

These are the basics. You cannot go wrong if you remember to be patient, gentle, loving and kind. In doing so, you will help your puppy or dog become confident, secure and a total bundle of loving puppy power.

Article written by Sally Cooley of ohmydogsupplies.com, check out our cool variety of small dog collars online.

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