Puppies and dogs don’t have all the same feelings people have. Yes, they have feelings but how they interpret them and when is not necessarily how we do. When they are in a situation that is not “normal” they are looking to you for guidance. However, when you feel pity-anger-anxious etc. you are telling them the “new situation” is, in fact, bad. You have said, yes you have the right feeling in this situation, and yes, it is a reason to “fear” or not enjoy this. Their thought process is “black and white.” Meaning, if what you are feeling is due to the “want of them” to accept it and feeling frustrated that they are not happy about it, is only approving their feelings because in the minds of puppies and dogs they are only thinking of the situation they fear rather than what THEY are doing or how THEY are acting. Now both of you are in two separate situations.
As you think about or notice “fear” in your pup or dog then add that to this list. Try to expose them to that situation as much as possible while keeping it short, calm, and rewarding.
Remember not to force them.
Click the button below for a guide on socializing that includes a detailed list to help you along the way.
