Anxious Dog

Question
Hello,

I have a 5 year old Pit/Shar Pei mix who is just the most loveable dog ever, however, he has extreme anxiety which has become more and more frequent in the past 2 years.  Whenever I take him out for a walk or outside in general, his tail immediately goes between his legs and he nervously looks around in every direction.  He has trouble going peeing and pooping because he is so uncomfortable and nervous.  I have even tried taking treats with me and in the event he does go, however, he will not eat them because he is so nervous.  This behavior I believe really started happening when he was about 2 after being neutered.  It became more frequent when we moved into our apt complex.  For about the first 6 months, he walked around without any problems, however, he now will walk right outside of my apt (after trying to coax him out).  Once he is done peeing he pulls me right back in.  In addition to this, he really is terrified of any object you can think of.  For example, when I first got him, he was afraid of garbage cans and would walk around it completely to pass by it.  Also, when he does go on a walk, if there is part of the side walk that is painted yellow, he will walk around it and if I even try to make him walk over it he fights me.  Anyhow, I really would love to get back into the habit of walking him frequently, but it has become such a hassle and I'm afraid he'll somehow have meltdown and run into the middle of the street. I'm not sure what to do anymore and I really want him to enjoy his doggy life.

Answer
You have a complex mental issue to deal with. You really need a local trainer to observe and handle the dog.  You didn't mention if you have taken him to a vet to make sure it is not a medical problem. Dogs get many of the ills humans, including mental disorders caused by diet, tumors, and other medical issues. As a dog grows older it should grow more confident, not less confident. For now, don't push him into his phobia zone, it will only make him more anxious. It would seem at least a part of the issue is the move to an apartment where he can hear others but not see them. The dogs senses are 10 times better than ours to sound and vibration.

You can begin with a positive reinforcement classical training regemin. Keep his favorite toy or treat handy. As soon as he appears anxious, direct his attention in some other direction, play is a good tool.

I would also recommend the book, "The Dog that Loved Too Much." It deals with many issues similar to this and will provide you with the ability to look for signs and clinically observe his behavior more than as an owner.  

Also the dog will pick up on your anxiousness about his anxiousness and it becomes a defeating spiral. Be confident and self assure when you are with the dog. Also if you are nervous of your new surroundings, the dog will be also.

Regards,
Henry Ruhwiedel
Westwind Kennels LLC