How to Handle a Frightened Puppy

There's nothing like a new puppy to bring joy into your home -- they are so appealing and adorable in their play, exploration and discovery. It's important to remember that when you first bring a new puppy to your home, she is in an unfamiliar place. She may be frightened, afraid of strange faces and loud noises after having been plucked from the warmth and security of her whelping box. This is a time when your frightened puppy needs behavioral training from her new parent. The more human contact she experiences, the more comfortable and socialized she will become.

  1. Avoid Praise

    • If your dog is afraid of someone or something, avoid rewarding fearfulness with overt praise or coddling, according to author and trainer Kathy Diamond Davis. Although it's natural to want to comfort your new puppy, petting or consoling the pup can reinforce the unwanted behavior and cause the puppy to associate being fearful with praise and attention. Ignore the behavior and act if everything is normal. In time, the puppy will sense your calmness and realize there is no cause to be afraid or fearful.

    Desensitization

    • Puppies may be afraid of many types of noises and sights. Counter-condition the dog to loud appliances, such as the vacuum cleaner, by pairing the feared item with something the dog likes, such as treats, toys or praise. Slowly introduce the dog to the offending noise and offer treats with the vacuum off, with the vacuum on and then with the vacuum on and moving. Some dogs are afraid of hardwood floors or stairs; add skid-proof rugs to give the dog traction, or work through his fears by feeding the puppy on a portion of the floor where he seems comfortable. When conditioning the dog to a feared item, use treats as a reward when the dog responds with confidence.

    Socialize

    • Frightened puppies need to build confidence. One of the best ways to do this is to expose your puppy to as many people as possible immediately after you pick her up, says dog trainer Linda Colflesh. Rather than have your guests pet or hold the puppy, ask them to "make themselves small" by crouching down on the floor and avoiding direct eye contact. Then let the puppy approach each guest when she is comfortable. Even friendly gestures such as an outstretched hand can seem threatening to a puppy.

    Training

    • It's never too early to start working with your puppy in a basic obedience class. Obedience training provides structure and stimulation to your dog and shows him that you are the alpha -- or leader. If the dog perceives you to be a strong leader that he can trust, he will become less fearful, according to Houston PetTalk. As you continue to work with your puppy, you will become your dog's source of confidence, and he will be more compliant in your obedience training.

    Medical Issues

    • Several physical conditions can heighten a dog's fearfulness, so it's always a good idea to speak with your vet to eliminate possible diseases or medical issues as a cause of fearful behavior. Your puppy may be injured, have a thyroid imbalance or poor hearing that may cause her to feel insecure and scared.