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mayhem529 · Oct 6, 2011, 12:20 PM

So, I got a dog from a breeder who had been kenneled too much to the point that he's pretty much scared of everything, including me when I first got him. I've had him 4 months now, and he's doing much, much better. He is always hesitant to go outside, and I got a little lazy about walking him further than around the block. For some reason the last couple days, as soon as we go outside he starts shaking and he stops about every foot or two and tries to go back home. Yesterday I forced him around the block, and it took FOREVER! Today I gave up at the corner and let him run back home (his favorite thing is to be let off his leash and we race back to the house). What could be making him so scared? He usually is fine once we turn the corner or cross the street... He just doesn't like getting away from the house when we're on our street, but not anymore, he shakes and fights the whole time.

And at my bfs house he's fine (there's 2 other dogs there), he's the first one to the door when we say outside. At my house he hides under the bed or something and goes submissive before I even get his leash.

P

ballengerb1 · Oct 6, 2011, 02:17 PM

Never force a dog to do something when they are afraid. Dogs must trust you and seek you for safety and security. Right now your little guys does not see a trusting relationship in your behavior. Try treats, praise and encourgaement. He has learned something freightens him in this location. You have to "teach/train" him to see its safe. I take my new dogs to the train station at the end of the day to socialize them with all sorts of people and experiences. Be sure to only praise and rewrad him when he is calm and well behaved. If he shakes do not reward or hug or say its OK. That tells him its OK to shake.

dragonars3210 · May 5, 2012, 09:19 PM

When he's outside associate him with things he likes. (Toys, treats, or music if you're my greyhound) Have playtime in your yard. If you associate his favorite things outdoors he won't be so afraid. Once he's a little better, lay on your grass, or cuddle him. But, ONLY if he has stopped shaking.

- Dragon