There are many reasons a dog may have nervous tendencies. Perhaps the dog is a smaller breed or was abused or isolated as a puppy, and now has a fear of hands. Many times dogs fear the unknown or unfamiliar objects or loud noises, such as thunder or car alarms. There are solutions to these problems. Each will help your dog lead a more active and confident life.
Things You'll Need
- Treats
- Food bowl
- Tape recorder
Instructions
Fear of Things
Place a treat near the object your dog fears, such as a chair on rollers or the baby's stroller.
After the dog has eaten the first treat, gradually place another closer to the object. Continue this until the dog must eat a treat directly under the object.
Place the dog's food bowl directly under or very close to the object in question.
Reward the dog with a treat and praise if it eats the meal.
Fear of Loud Noises
Make a recording of the noise that frightens your dog.
Play the recording for your dog when you are sure the noise will not occur naturally. This first playing should be at a low volume.
Gradually increase the volume of the noise over the next few weeks.
Reward your dog for not becoming scared during these sessions.
Fear of Strange or Familiar Hands
Stand a few feet away from your dog.
Place a treat in your open hand and wait for the dog to take it.
Take a step closer to the dog and once again offer it a treat in your open hand.
Take a few more steps nearer the dog until you are standing right next to it. Offer a treat in your open hand and praise and pet the dog if it accepts the treat willingly.