genngirl

Hey everyone, I hope someone can give me some advice. We have a 6 month old spayed female dobe "Diva". We have only had her since Thanksgiving weekend and so far everything has been great. She is a typical dobe...super people friendly, cat curious, trys to eat EVERYTHING..lol. When we rehomed her, she came from a household that also had a Puggle and was introduced to our Jack Russell Terrier smoothly. Up until today we know no history of, nor had we personally had any experience of her around dogs of her own size or larger. Well, we took her to the dog park and she freaked out. She was ok on her leash, nose to nose with the other 2 St.Bernard/Spaniel mixes. Once off her leash she was tentative but definatly curious. She trotted toward the other 2 dogs and our JRT who was already playing with them and when one of them came towards her...she ran SCREAMING like she was being tortured. This happened a second time and she came to sit by us. We put her back on her leash and walked her around some more...all seemed well...just some nervousness when the dogs ran in her direction. Off the leash again and the only time she freaked out was when the dogs ran in her direction. She would approach if they were laying down, or drinking, or eating treats but if they came towards her with any speed she screamed and ran. Fortunatly the other dogs left her alone unless she approached them and we praised her bravery and ignored her fearfulness to avoid nurturing the behavior. She had gotten better by the time we left but still was terrified if chased. I am looking for anyone else with similar experiences or advice as to how to help her through this. I know to continue exposing her under close supervision..but any ideas as to how long this may take? She is the sweetest girl and I hate to see her have to go through this! Ok, well I appreciate any feedback.

Thanks,
Gen and Diva

LuvMyDobes

Do you know if she has ever been traumatized by a larger dog? This could explain her hesitancy especially to have them run at her. Or, she may be in a fear period. The Second Fear Imprint Period (6 - 14 Months) is similar to the one that occurred during the socialization period, but, it is much less defined. It occurs as dogs enter adolescence and seems more common in males. It is often referred to as adolescent shyness. Your dog may suddenly become reluctant to approach something new or suddenly become afraid of something familiar. This behavior can be very frustrating to the owner and difficult to understand because its onset is so sudden and, seemingly, unprovoked. If you notice this behavior, it is important to avoid the two extremes in response: Don't force him to do or approach something frightening to him and don't coddle or baby him. To get through situations that make your dog fearful, be patient, kind, and understanding. Desensitize him to the object or situation by gradually introducing him to it and using food rewards and praise to entice him to confront the fearful object or situation. Do not coddle or reassure him in any way that will encourage his fearful behavior. Do not correct him either. Simply make light of it and encourage him give him food rewards as he begins to deal with his fear better. Make sure you lavishly praise his attempts! This phase will pass.
Carolyn