2 year old golden and possible panic attacks

Question
We purchased a beautiful golden retriever from a breeder 2 weeks ago.  He is 2 years old.  We also gave the breeder $200 to have some initial training done and paid to have him neutered before he was brought to our home.  He is a very sweet dog.  He is also very skiddish at times and panics at some of the slightest things.  He was crated since birth and has disliked the crate since his arrival here.  He has had little or no socialization.  When he panics, he retreats to the bedroom. When we take him to training class, he sometimes cowers and crawls under a chair.  My husband and I are very patient and have had many animals in the past.  What can we do?

Answer
Hi Patience is good, tolerance is not. You can't make your dog feel secure by allowing this kind of behavior. Socialization is definitely the problem. Get him out and about as much as you can. Get him TIRED before taking him to training classes.  When he has panic attacks do NOT let him get into a full blown panic, keep him on lead and give him a swift tug on the leash when he panics, or even BEGINS to behave in a tense way, tail between his legs, head down, panting etc. Dont' let it start, or escalate. Walk him twice a day briskly at heel for at least half an hour each walk. Go to the website alphabootcamp and read and learn :). Submissive skittish dogs are insecure and unsure of their status in the pack, they also have no confidence in their pack leader, which is you. Don't baby him and tell him it's ok when he does this, it simply reinforces bad behavior.,
Good luck!
Cindi