What this can look like
- Avoiding new environments
- Startling or shutting down
- Hesitation around people or objects
A useful place to begin
1
Do not rush the dog toward something frightening.
2
Use manageable exposure, choice, and calm reinforcement to build successful experiences.
Exact first steps
1
Let your dog observe the new person, object, or sound from a distance where their body can soften and they can still eat.
2
Reward voluntary investigation and allow retreat. Do not lure the dog so close that they feel trapped after taking the food.
3
End after a few successful repetitions. Return another day and change only one variable, such as distance, movement, or sound level.
Every dog and situation is different. This information is educational and does not promise a specific behavioral outcome.