How To Boost Your Dog’s Confidence
Introduction
A dog likes to know his place in the scheme of things; being a pack animal their understanding of their world is based on hierarchy. If a dog does not have this sense of place, then it will become insecure. These can have all kinds of effects on its behaviour. Of course just as there are naturally shy people, there can be naturally shy and timid dogs. What is required in theses circumstances is a regime to improve the dog’s confidence.
Dog Training Activities
Positive social interaction is key, and basic obedience training can be a good place to start. The best system to use would be one that rewards good behaviour with praise and treats, but ignores bad behaviour. Fido will have fun and learn that he will be rewarded when he gets things right, but not punished if it goes a bit awry. Nobody responds to constant negativity. Agility training is to be recommended in particular as exercise is great for relieving stress.
Shy of People?
If dog is nervous around people, have a friend help out with gradual desensitization. The friend should not make any bold moves: basically anything that might appear potentially threatening to the dog, particularly do not look the dog directly in the eye. Slowly allow the dog to investigate the friend, with the aid of treats held in the hand, use a low stance, and a calm and measured tone of voice. Once the friend can look directly at the dog without any adverse reaction, then physical contact can be made via petting, such as gently rubbing the chest. Attending classes in obedience and agility are also a good way to stimulate social interaction with other dogs and owners
Good Owner Behaviour
Improving your own behaviour patterns will lessen the chances of the dog exhibiting behaviours that requires scolding. It’s not a good idea to place a temptation in the dog’s path such as a slipper to chew on, or an open bin to raid: the dog cannot be held responsible for behaving as a dog. Dogs also rely on body language as a major form of communication: how you approach a dog, how you look at dog, even vocal tone, will have an effect on his behaviour. Put yourself a doggy-eye level; keep the voice low, calm and measured: no extremities of volume or pitch.
Conclusion
Never be abusive to your dog as a method of teaching (or at any other time), as this type of treatment may have lead to confidence problems in the first place. In many ways, dogs are similar to children. Confidence in dogs comes with praise and gentle instruction. Follow this method and your dog will definitely feel much better about his life, and your house won’t smell quite so bad!
