How to Tell If Your Dog Needs Confidence Building
Does your dog seem nervous or worried about people, other dogs, noises, changes in their environment, or even different surfaces? If so, they might benefit from some confidence-building exercises. This article is geared towards dogs who freeze, move away, or seem disengaged when they’re anxious. If your dog is more forward and barks when nervous, these resources may be more helpful. We also have 1x1 virtual training sessions available to customize a plan just for you and your dog.
When to Expect Results
Every dog is unique. Some might show rapid progress with just a few adjustments, while others may take months or even years to make steady, incremental gains. Factors like past experiences, genetics, previous training, and practice opportunities all influence how quickly your dog will improve.
Below are a few activities to help you get started. Remember, each dog is different, so tailor these exercises to suit your dog's needs. If you're not seeing progress, don’t hesitate to reach out for additional guidance.
“Get it” - Chase a Treat
This simple game can be incredibly effective. Teaching your dog to chase a treat on command can be both a fun reward and a way to help them move towards or away from specific things in their environment. This is especially useful for dogs who freeze when nervous, as it gets them moving and thinking again. Plus, because the task is fun, it can help change their feelings about challenging situations.
Steps:
- Quiet Start: Begin in a quiet room. Say “Get it” or a similar phrase.
- Roll the Treat: Roll a treat away from you so your dog follows it.
- Repeat: Repeat many times in short sessions throughout the day
Hand Touch - Dog’s Nose to Your Hand
Teaching your dog to touch their nose to your hand can be a versatile tool. It can help move your dog from one spot to another, focus their attention on you, and even facilitate interactions with other people.
Steps:
- Introduce the Treat: Place a treat on your flat hand and offer it to your dog. Let them eat the treat. Repeat 5-10 times.
- Empty Hand: Then, hold out your flat hand without a treat. When your dog touches your hand, give a treat using your other hand. Repeat many times.
Paws Up
Having your dog put their front paws on a retaining wall, rock, or tree stump might seem silly, but it can be very helpful. This trick provides a predictable way for your dog to interact with their environment, building their confidence. For nervous dogs, you can practice this trick at a distance from people and gradually reduce the distance as your dog becomes more comfortable. Click here for a video example from our Beginning Agility series.
Steps:
- Start Simple: Use something your dog already steps on, like a dog bed or stairs. Encourage your dog to step up, and reward them with a treat when their paws touch the object. Repeat many times.
- Gradual Progression: Once your dog is comfortable, try a new object, like a stair on a walk or a large rock.
Wrap Up
Start with these simple skills and gradually vary the environment or situation. As your dog learns more, they’ll be better equipped to handle “scary” things. Always work at a level your dog can handle and avoid overwhelming them. Patience and consistency are key to building your dog’s confidence.
By incorporating these exercises into your routine, you’ll help your dog feel more secure and confident in a variety of situations.
