BennyBix Ochman Labradoodle Puppy is sometimes fearful of other dogs on the street. His response to this fear is first to freeze in place, and then, if the dog gets near him, to lunge, nearly taking my arm out of the socket on several occasions, while barking ferociously.
I usually just turn and walk the other way so he doesn’t have a confrontation. But today I came across what sounds like good advice from North Shore Animal League.
Use a Jolly Jingle
They suggest establishing a jingle you sing or whistle to the dog whenever you are playing and he is happy. Once a positive association is formed, sing this when in the company of a fear-inducing stimulus. It’s the equivalent of the effect the ice cream truck jingle has on a crying child.
Hmm, I think we’ll try “You are my sunshine”.
Instead, start singing or whistling your Jolly Jingle while still at a comfortable distance from the stimuli. This will cause the dog to focus on you.
Never scold the dog in the company of the fearful stimulus. Be patient. Never force a dog into a fearful situation. Don’t use leash corrections or punishment.
How to tell when your dog is stressed
A dog that’s stressed generally won’t take a treat from you because dogs typically won’t eat when stressed. A stressed dog also may put its tail and or head down, start yawning, or panting, and try to escape the leash.
I’ll be singing to my dog. How about you?