Even though your dog is friendly, it is possible that some people will be terrified of your pet. Cynophobia, often known as dog fear, affects roughly one-third of all people who are terrified of animals.
Indeed, there are ways to approach people who are fearful of dogs while managing your fur baby. As such, when interacting with easily scared people, practicing good public dog etiquette is a terrific place to start. A range of behaviors can make dog owners more appealing to the general public.
Read on to discover more about dog phobia and safe dog management.
Understanding Dog Phobia
Everyone has a unique story to tell. A variety of factors can contribute to dog phobia. A person who is attacked by a dog is more likely to get PTSD2. It’s possible that they’re afraid of dogs in general, or of the specific breed that attacked them. Autism and other sensory processing issues may be exacerbated by dogs. Some dogs, especially those who are incredibly eager to meet new people, can have a loud bark, which can be overstimulating for those who have difficulty processing sound.
Use a Leash and Collar
Even if your dog has perfect recall, which means he or she always comes when called, you should keep them on a leash in public. Choose a leash that will not readily break and will not retract. Unruly dogs on retractable leashes frequently charge at strangers. When utilizing retractable leashes, dogs are more challenging to handle. Retractable leashes do not retract once the dog has reached the holding point for the leash. This forces the person in control of the dog to yank on the dog’s leash, which is distressing not only for the dog but also for the person toward whom the dog is running and the person in control of the dog. If your dog has outstanding recall and is used to having complete control of the yard, a longer leash will allow him to exercise greater independence.
Not Everyone Will Be Eager to Get To Know Your Dog
Even if your dog is friendly to strangers and appreciates other people’s company, not everyone will be delighted to meet him. Always exercise extreme caution. Assume that humans and dogs desire their own area and avoid attempting to introduce the two. You should comply with anyone who wishes to meet your dog and allow them to do so.
Make Use of Training Cues and Signals
You can teach your dog obedience commands that it should already know while walking it. Give your dog the command to keep an eye on you while the other person walks by. If there is another way to achieve your goal, or if your dog is excessively hyperactive or aggressive and cannot “sit and stay,” you should redirect him.
Take Treats With You
Several dog trainers claim that you can train your dog anywhere and at any time. It is very advised to train dogs in public places. The majority of public, noisy, and crowded circumstances necessitate a cue that says “sit and observe” or “leave it.” If your dog has been clicker-trained, bring along some training treats and a clicker to assist you with praise and rewarding positive behavior.
Conclusion
More than anything, what’s crucial to understand is that people who are terrified of dogs do not want to hurt you or your pet. Maintaining order and calm in the presence of your dog may not totally alleviate their worries, but it may help them feel more at ease in his company. All in all, you must train your dog to act responsibly among individuals who are terrified of dogs.
If you’re in need of a dog behaviorist in San Diego, consult with the Gnaw On Their Skull team. We are professionals who specialize in improving the lives of both dog owners and their pets. Give us a call today to learn more about our services!