Fearful Shituz

Q: Erma MacDonald
Question: My shitzu is afraid of dogs and people. She charges at people trying to bite their legs. How do I make her more friendly? She does have some friends both dogs and people but it took a long time to get there and they are family.

A: Hi Erma,
Be assured, that this is a very typical issues seen with small dogs (lap dogs). In most cases, the issues are not resolved easily because of the owner's tendency to nurture their dog's insecurity (or uncertainty) in an effort to provide comfort. When dogs become stressed, nervous or scared their response are limited to two main functions..fight or flight. Depending on the dog's age, breed, sex, and past experiences they will usually exhibit one more often than the other. Your dog faces the fear head-on and creates confrontation.

In order to change your dog's response in these circumstances you must first exhibit the energy that you want the situation to represent. If you want your dog to have a relaxed and enjoyable experience, you must be relaxed, calm and happy. Becoming stressed, angry or nervous will only confirm your dog's fear.

Once in the right state of mind, the next step is to go slowly with new people. Don't force her to make friends, give her space and time in a social setting to become comfortable. Provide lots of food rewards in unsettling environments, and celebrate small successes (glancing at a stranger and then looking back to you, walking past another dog without an overreaction, etc.). Ask people to ignore her at first, no eye contact or reaching in to her space. When she is ready, let her go to the person. You can put food rewards on the floor by the persons feet to encourage her to move closer.

If she does begin to react inappropriately, focus on redirecting her (pulling to the side of the neck with the leash in the opposite direct then she is pulling), and reward her for coming away from the person or animal she was reacting to. Never coddle her when she is afraid by picking her up. Wait until she is no longer reacting, then the cuddle will be a reward for calming down.

Remain cool, calm and collective.... your dog will follow.