Vital Pet Health

Nervousness is usually an inherited trait. The socialisation of a nervous puppy is therefore essential if you are going to help them build confidence in order for them to cope successfully with new situations and people.

Regular exposure to situations that will offer the dog a positive experience will build his confidence yet be mindful not to overwhelm or scare the dog as this could re-start the socialisation process.

Signs that your dog is nervous can be very subtle, if he licks his lips, starts to yawn or looks away it can mean that he is not all together comfortable. More noticeable actions such as backing away or shaking can indicate a heightened level of fear.

On noticing the signs you should try and remove your dog away from the situation or distract them with something they associate as a positive experience. This may come in the form of a treat or toy. By doing this, the negative feelings they have for the experience may be reduced.

When your dog is experiencing times of stress they may cower, tuck the tail between their legs and pant. Do not force your dog further into an experience if they are demonstrating these signs. If the dog cannot see an escape route then they may turn to growling, lunging and snapping as a means of self-defence.

During these occasions it is important you do not punish the dog for aggressive behaviour. If you do then he will believe aggression is an effective way of keeping scary situations away. When a dog is frightened punishing them may only result in the dog becoming frightened of you as well, which could incite biting towards yourself.

Dogs can be nervous for many reasons; loud noises or strangers may be the cause on increased stress. Sometimes the cause of the stress is due to one or two frightening encounters earlier on in their lives. By having controlled exposure to their fears the levels of stress can be reduced. If you feel this is the case then visit your vet who will recommend a suitable animal behaviourist who can guide you through the process.

Dogs that are nervous yet do not show signs of aggression need you to be the protector. When they are in frightening situations they look to you. Remove them from the situation in order for them to remain relaxed. If you stay in the stressful situation and re-assure them all you are doing is reinforcing the nervousness. By taking them away from the stress they trust you will protect them.

Try to avoid stressful situations if you are aware of them. For the occasions where there are little or no choice try to distract your dog with play or a favourite toy. The nervous energy may well subside with physical exertion while the action of play will distract them from whatever is causing the stress.

Training your dog to understand simple commands can also help stressful situations. It increases communication between owner and dog and therefore adds to the protector role he is looking for from you.

Once play and response to commands are engrained you can slowly introduce the dog into situations they may have felt nervous in. Always stay at a safe distance and watch for signs of nervousness. Over time your dog’s confidence in you and himself will grow.

Over many weeks of training you may be able to move closer and closer to the scary situation. When your dog copes well with the situation and does not show signs of nervousness reward with a treat and praise.

As a responsible owner you can help your nervous dog over come their worries. The benefits this will bring to the whole family will be fantastic. You will be able to share in more active and varied experiences together.

A defensive dog may have deep rooted problems from their past and so you should always discuss their behaviour with a vet who may advise work with a well qualified animal behaviourist.