Self Confidence

[rasmy]

Hi all, i have posted a thread about my dog being atacked under the name nightmare, I was asking in this thread if the attack was going to have any effects on my puppy, now I have the answer, YES, my dog seems afraid and cautious of other large dogs, although he seems to like to play with them, but if any dog growls at him he is frieghtened!!. My puppy is seven months now, I don't want him to be cowered dog or afraid of every other dog, is there anything that I can do to make him has more self confidence???

[Judi W]

Avoid the mistake you made previously and see that he continues to socialize with nice dogs and keep him away from hostile ones! He is entirely correct to be fearful of a large dog that growls at him. He's not stupid! I hope he knows he is just a pup. If he is socialized with proper dogs, he will learn manners and will not be put at risk of being attacked. It is a combination of interaction.

Youngsters should have enough survival knowlege to understand when they should back down. Give him time and monitor his associates. Please note, he must also regain trust in you, that you will not again put him in danger.

[rottnkidd]

How do YOU react when he sees large dog's? You don't want to make a big deal out of it. If he's acting appropriately, (meaning he's not growling or trying to start something), then you should
give him a couple of good pats on the side for being a "good boy", and go on your way. You don't want to fuss and make an issue out of his being anxious. This will only encourage his
fear. Play some games and let HIM win. Throw the ball and start running as if YOU'RE going to get it first, but let the PUP get it, and praise him for it! If you play tug games, let him win often and don't forget the praise. Teach him to 'find' a hidden toy, (don't make it too difficult!) when he finds it, praise him, give him a treat, and tell him what a smart dog he is. Let us know how it goes. Good luck to both of you!
kathy