Helping a dog who is afraid of strangers
Fear isn't rudeness. Give your dog space, let them choose, and pair new people with good things.
By Pawfessor Editorial TeamPublished 1 min read
A dog who barks, hides or backs away from strangers is usually scared, not aggressive. The goal isn’t to make them love everyone. It’s to help them feel safe enough to stay calm.
Signs of fear
Tucked tail, ears back, lip licking, yawning, whale eye (the whites of the eyes showing), turning away, hiding behind you, and sometimes barking or growling to make the person go away. See reading dog body language.
Frequently asked questions
Should strangers give my nervous dog treats?
Only if your dog is comfortable approaching. Better: the stranger tosses a treat away from them, so your dog can retreat to eat it. Never let people reach for a scared dog.
Can a fearful dog become friendly?
Many fearful dogs become much more comfortable with patient, gradual work. Some will always prefer a small circle of people, and that's okay.
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