QuestionHi I sure you might have some insight into this new problem. Out of the blue our out going Angel and now afraid of all noises, will no longer go out to play (she was a frisbee freak) terrified of the space where she goes to the bathroom outside between two sheds, will not go upstairs and hides mostly under my daughters bed all day. We have no idea what has scared her so badly and we are a lost in how to help our girl out. She is only 4 years old.
Sincerely
Karen Ingram
AnswerHello Karen,
Although my area of expertise is more geared towards dog obedience and sheep dog herding, I will attempt to help you with some ideas and suggestions given to me by others who have had similiar problems. Simply put, this is what I would do:
Firstly, Angel may have most definately been exposed to something that scared her. It may have been something as simple as thunder. However, now that she's having difficulty living out her normal routine, it is crucial that you attempt to show confidence while with her wherever she goes. Your confidence will "rub off" on her with consistant training.
If she is used to being off leash, you may have to put a thin nylon leash on her for a time, just to help coax her into the places you want her to go. Be firm and consistant with your commands. Do not show any fear yourself and do not show any hesitation when going from here to there. Use a happy encouraging voice while you walk and use a lot of praise when she gets to your destination point.
When you are in the place where she normally would go on her own, give her time to settle down. Calm her with reassuring words of praise. If she starts to shake or pull on the leash, simply distract her by taking off again with her by your side and praising her as you go. Stop in the destination place again or pass right through it this time. Alternate your path so she becomes confident that everything is OK.
The problem you are having is nothing new and many dog owners experience it and have successfully overcome it. Hunting dogs and herding dogs alike are exposed to loud noises that sometimes turn them off of their daily work for a time, but it is nothing that can't be fixed.
Working with your dog on leash and exposing her to more people, places and things could cure a lot of potential problems as the one you describe above. Whatever you do, do not baby her to the point where you prolong her recovery.
If she is allowed to remain scared, she may become aggressive towards anyone trying to reach for her. Therefore, you will most certainly want to "nip this in the bud" by taking charge of the situation.
Keep her at your side on leash all day long if possible. Do this for a week or two and then see if you can start taking her off leash for brief periods of time without her dashing under the bed. Do not allow her to hide. Put her in a crate during the night or when you are away.
Thank you for your question.
Ann Jordan
Border Collie Coach
BorderCollieCoach.com
