panic attacks

Question
I rescued a female lab/cocker mix puppy one year ago.  She has shown fear of men, kids, and cars.  I take her to doggie daycare and training classes to help her socialize.  She has let some friends pet her but normally she is fearful of everyone outside the family.  She seems reluctant to go for walks but tends to enjoy it for awhile; we are on a sidewalk in a safe area using a Gentle Leader. If too many cars are moving on the street or too many people are making noises, she panics and just can't wait until we get home. I had hoped she would be more relaxed by now on walks.  Do you have any advice?

Answer


Hi Connie,

It's really hard to say when or if your dog will ever be "normal" when it comes to her comfort level of the things she currently fears. It sounds like she's made real progress, and you're doing all that you can do to help her get over her fears, but she may never completely get over this.

Don't force your dog into situations that you know she isn't comfortable in. It might be helpful to walk your dog in more quiet areas, or during times of the day when it's less busy.

Time and patience are great healers, so just "stay the course".

Best of luck!

Patti