Fearful and shy Dogs

Some of the dogs that come to Second Chance are really scared and some are so shy that they become afraid too.  These dogs come from all walks of life....strays who have been on the road too long, owner surrendered dogs that have been alone too much, breeding dogs who have spent much of their time with other dogs, and dogs who are transferred from other shelters or rescues.  Some snap right out of it and it takes others more time.  My mom is going to write some stuff about how to cope with a fearful or shy dog, so here's my mom:


Thank you Miss Roo!


I guess first would be to identify if your dog is a fearful or shy dog.  It's really not hard to tell.  Generally, they won't come to you of their own free will, won't meet you eye to eye, run when you try to pet them, freeze when you pick them up, won't eat in front of you, growl when you try to touch them, urinate when you approach, even, in severe cases, a dog will defecate or try to climb up the walls when the fear is very out of control.


Many people make the assumption that a dog who is shy or fearful has been abused.  That is not always true.  It can be a problem with genetics or even that the dog has been socialized with other dogs more than with people.  We have also heard that a dog such as this cannot change.  Also, untrue.  Almost all of the dogs we have had at the rescue make significant changes in their fearful or shy behavior very quickly.  


So don't give up on your fearful or shy dog.  We will be giving you pointers on how to help your dog out and things you can do to build their self esteem.  Fearful and shy dogs can be a challenge but once you help them break through that wall, they are some of the most loving and devoted dogs ever!  They know that you have taken a "journey" with them and they are thankful!


                                                       ~ Miss Roo and her mom, Denise

                                                                     

---