traumatized dog

Question
My dog (King Charles cavalier spaniel) was attacked yesterday by a large lab
while out on a walk.  Despite the fact that the mauling lasted a good 30
seconds before we could free him from the lab's teeth, he has no broken skin
and appears to be fine physically (Will walk, go up stairs, etc.) However he is
simply cowering in corners and will not eat or go to the bathroom.  I have
held him, let him sleep with us, taken him for a ride in the car, but he will not
go for a walk  eat or go to the bathroom.  He will take treats when offered
and he eats them fine.  The dog was bitten in his shoulder area so it should
not affect his ability to go to the bathroom which is what I am the most
worried about.  ANy ideas.

Answer
Hi Christine,

I'm glad your dog wasn't harmed during this attack!

Like you said, your dog has been traumatized. It's a huge emotional experience for your dog, even though he wasn't physically hurt.

Your dog will recover from this trauma, but it's going to take time and patience on your part. Try walking your dog in the opposite direction from where the attack happened. Keep the walks short at first, to build his confidence, and offer your dog plenty of praise, and maybe a tasty treat when you're walking, just as you might have done when you were training your dog to walk on a leash. Make going out a pleasant experience for him again. Be confidant, and don't coddle your dog, that is the same as encouraging his fear. It's the same as praising him for being terrified. Only talk to him when he is relaxed and confident - then praise her. Otherwise, just ignore his fear.
Your dog needs security, consistency, affection and discipline. This will enable him to trust that you're still the "alpha" dog that's still controlling the "pack". Give your dog a few "pop-quizzes" during the day,have him do some simple commands - sit, walk, stay etc, to further reinforce who's in control.

If you have friends or family with nice gentle dogs, invite them over and go for a few walks with them. go for walks with them.

I know that you're very concerned, but when your dog is ready to relieve himself, he will. I don't know if you've ever been through a bad snowstorm, but if you have, you'd be amazed how long a dog can "hold it", if they want to!

Best of luck,
Patti