How to Deal With Insecure Dogs

Insecure dogs feel unsure of how to behave in new situations. This is often manifested in aggression in response to actions that make them uncomfortable. Curing a dog of insecurity is not a process that can be completed in a day. However, by following a regimen designed to teach the dog its safe place within the family, you can break your dog of insecurity. Once you have taught your dog to be more confident, you will achieve an all-around improvement in temperament and behavior.

Instructions

    • 1

      Withhold affection from your dog when it is acting insecurely. While it seems as though affection will make the dog feel better and stop being insecure, the affection at the moment of incidence provides positive affirmation for the act -- reinforcing the behavior.

    • 2

      Spend time with your dog, playing and interacting every day. It is important for an insecure dog to feel like it is part of the family, and only daily interaction and affection can make it feel included.

    • 3

      Maintain an authoritative tone when giving commands. An insecure dog is unsure of where it belongs in the "pack," and taking the dominant role allows the dog to gain comfort in its role as the beta of the family.

    • 4

      Encourage and reward the dog when it acts in an outgoing way, which shows an increase in feelings of security.

    • 5

      Develop a consistent daily structure for the dog. Creating a routine allows your dog to get comfortable, as it knows what to expect throughout each day.

    • 6

      Introduce the dog to other dogs slowly, avoiding large groups or introductions within your home.

    • 7

      Avoid dogs that are aggressive, as an insecure dog is more likely to react negatively to an strange dog, and will often respond with aggression of its own -- escalating the problem.