Shyness Fears Phobias
Working with a shy puppy or dog, or one that is fearful, presents its own special challenges. Of course bold, forceful dogs present challenges of their own, especially with control and leadership issues. Every type of puppy or dog has its own unique personality and its own unique training challenges as a result.
One important reason to build confidence in a fearful dog is to prevent biting. High fear dogs often become biters to deal with their fear of new situations, and this type of fear response can be dangerous for you and your dog. It is important to teach the puppy or dog that new situations and new people are nothing to fear, and that they are not out to hurt him. continue reading article
Phobias can develop from a single experience (one event learning) or from continued exposure to the fearful stimulus. Although some dogs react with a mild fear response of panting and pacing, others get extremely agitated and may become destructive or panicked. These dogs are experiencing a phobic response to the stimulus. continue reading article
The same tensions that occur in people with obsessive-compulsive disorder occur in dogs. Arising out of stress and conflict the obsessive-compulsive behaviors have some soothing effects on mood. Prevention of dogs from engaging in their particular compulsions can create anxiety in its own right.
There are two factors that seem to be necessary for the development of compulsive behaviors in dogs. Obsessive-compulsive behaviors are more often seen in the larger breed of dogs. continue reading article
