Pet care: Deploying diversionary tactics to deal with a fearful dog

Pet care: Dog is freaked-out when home alone, too

Second in a series.

Pet care: Why does pup trust one pet parent but not the other?

First in a series.

Third in a series.

Every fearful pet is different. Genetics is often the big culprit, but life’s traumas can be another major factor. Dogs who’ve been abused predictably avoid or react badly to their perpetrator but not toward others of that sex. It turned out that before meeting Richard, Evie had only lived with women.

From day one in her new home, this dog was a nervous wreck, especially when the big guy lumbered around, rattling the windows with his normal booming voice. Getting in touch with his feminine side was one solution, but poor Evie was on edge, ready to lose her mind, most of the time anyway. The diagnosis was generalized anxiety disorder.

Rehearsing a behavior strengthens the supporting neural circuits in the brain. That’s why practice makes perfect. The upshot for Evie was that she could only improve if she stopped reacting to Richard’s movements, not to mention the myriad of everyday sights and sounds that caused her to jump, bark and freak out. As best as possible, she needed a safe distance from every one of her triggers.

I explained that no one, apart from Vicky, should ever approach, reach for, or lean over Evie. At the same time I encouraged Richard to enjoy this special girl’s company all he wanted by sitting still with his side turned and not looking directly at her. When he held a treat at his hip, not reaching or even talking, a cute cattle dog started reliably showing up for a snack, a kind word and a head rub. As this behavior was repeated, it got stronger.

Of course, Richard couldn’t spend every waking moment sitting still or lying on the floor (Evie’s favorite); he needed to live his life. But standing up and appearing suddenly bigger would be a nonstarter. So I advised him to locate a Treat & Train across the room. Before getting to his feet, he would give the “Place” command, sending this pupster running happily to lie down in front of this nifty device.

Next week: Could we help Evie feel better more of the time?

For help with behavior problems, you can sign up for a Zoom group conference at drjeffnichol.com

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