Training the timid dog is basically the same as training any dog except that you must spend more time in the beginning to make the dog feel at ease. Positive reinforcement techniques should be the only techniques used as you want to build confidence in the dog.
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Build Confidence
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A timid dog definitely poses a training issue as his fear prevents him from wanting to participate in the training sessions. He instead sits suspiciously waiting for something bad to happen. The first goal must be to build a little confidence. Some rescued dogs are so shy you can barely get near them. If this is the case, leave the dog alone for awhile and just feed him and offer him affection whenever you can. Allow him time to get used to his environment.
Once he is comfortable, try to instigate play. Use rawhides, squeaky toys, and other treats to gain the dog's interest. Pet and rub on the dog as much as he will allow. Scratching an itchy dog is a sure way into his good graces. A playful dog that seeks out your affection is a good place to start.
Training
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The actual training will be quite easy now that you have her out of her shell. Again use treats and at first keep the training sessions short. Start by teaching basic commands such as "sit" or "down." Show the dog you have something he wants, like a bit of hot dog. Say the command then gently put the dog in the desired position and give him the treat. Repeat until the dog begins to perform the behavior on her own. Once you have taught her a couple simple commands, it is easier to teach other behaviors.
Another important thing to teach the timid dog is that he should allow you to touch and handle his entire body, including his ears, mouth and feet, without becoming defensive. To teach her to allow you to examine her, start by having a couple of treats handy. Ask her to sit and then gently start petting her head. Take hold of an ear and reassure her with your voice. Take a quick look in the ear and then give her the treat. Repeat until you can look in the ear for as long as you want. This same technique can be used to look in the mouth and the feet.
Go slowly and try not to push more than the dog is willing to tolerate. The last thing you want is to scare or frighten the dog you have spent so much time building confidence in. Also use caution when looking in the mouth of the dog. This should be one of the last behaviors you train, giving you a chance to build the dog's faith in you so that he will be less likely to bite out of fear.
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