Timid Dog Training

Bringing a new furry best friend into your home is always an adjustment, but when your pup is so apprehensive that bonding seems impossible, it takes extra effort on your part. A dog might be shy due to its genetic temperament, a lack of socialization, trauma or abuse. A slow approach and timid dog training techniques that incorporate positive reinforcement will have you both feeling more relaxed over time.

  1. Treat a Shy Dog Right

    • Offering treats is the best way to implement a positive reward system your dog can relate to. Use soft, tasty treats that are sure to entice -- chicken, cheese, hot-dogs -- in bite-sized chunks. Have treats ready each time you train your dog, and offer one every time the dog exhibits the behavior you're working to cultivate. Let your pooch know you're in control and always offer words of praise in a happy tone.

    Meet and Greet

    • Some dogs are particularly mistrusting of a hand reaching out toward them. Hand targeting is a technique that gradually helps your fearful dog to stop shying away from a friendly pat or stroke. Keep treats in one hand and from a kneeling or squatting position, extend the other hand, palm up, toward your dog. When the dog touches your palm with its nose, immediately offer praise and a treat. Choose a quiet place to work on hand targeting so your pup doesn't get distracted, and repeat the process several times during each training session. Once your dog is comfortable with you, friends and family members can use the hand targeting technique to gain Fido's trust, too.

    Positive Exposures

    • Coddling and consoling a timid dog won't pull it out of its shell, but it's also important not to force anything on a frightened dog. A dog that feels cornered may become aggressive and will likely remain fearful despite training attempts. Let a dog that's fearful of people make the first approach and don't initiate eye contact when you first begin a training regime. Calm a dog that's afraid of a strange object or loud noise by creating systematic exposures to the feared object. Lure your dog past a strange object with a treat. Make a loud noise in another room and cheerfully call your dog to come for a treat and investigate the not-so-scary sound.

    Confidence Boosters

    • Providing your pooch with confidence-building experiences such as obedience classes, agility training or even a focused game of catch can go a long way in eliminating fearful behaviors. Pets are pros at picking up on the moods and mental states of their owners; project an upbeat, relaxed vibe when you're together and your dog will draw strength from your example.