Charlotte Foster
Fear is natural and a vital protective mechanism. It only becomes a problem when it is exaggerated and inappropriate and the dog cannot find its way out of the behavior on its own. A dog that hides under the table for fear of a man and takes hours to come out is an example of this. Since such anxiety and stress behavior can even make your darling really ill in the long run, you have to do something about it in good time. Preferably from puppy legs on.
Show the puppy the world
So that your puppy does not develop unfounded fears in the first place, it is important to let him get to know as many different stimuli as possible during the socialization phase. But no matter how hard you try to make everything optimal for your puppy, there will come a time when your puppy is startled and shows fear. Now it is crucial that you behave properly.
Peace and security instead of pity and comfort
If your puppy is startled because he experienced his first summer thunderstorm and there was a loud bang, you shouldn’t feel sorry for him or comfort him under any circumstances. If you approach him now and try to calm him down, it can increase his anxiety. Because apparently you are also impressed by the situation because you have never behaved like that before. And you confirm him with your comfort, your petting, and the encouraging words in his behavior. Of course, you shouldn’t ignore the pup when he’s sitting there shivering and shaking and he’s really scared. Instead, you behave calmly and confidently. Call your puppy over to you and let him be quiet with you. You can also put a hand on his back – but please don’t pet him, just indicate that you are there and that everything is under control.
Don’t play up the situation
If your puppy is startled by an object, don’t try to lure him to it. The more attention you pay to this incident, the more skeptical your puppy will become. Just walk up to the item and wait. Give your pup time to think things through and approach you on their own. Because if mistress or master remain so relaxed and calm with the strange object, it can’t be that dangerous. If you get your little one through situations that are scary for him, he will gradually gain more confidence and self-confidence – and discover and experience the world like you with confidence!