How to help my scared dog build confidence and overcome fears?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Rhodesian Ridgeback | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 6 months old
Could you give me advice on building my dogs confidence and getting her used to things she's scared of like dogs, people, children, footballs.
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on April 23rd, 2017
Poor Star! It sounds like she's a very anxious girl, if she's afraid of so many things. You can work with her on this by taking tasty treats with you everywhere you go - if she sees something that makes her nervous, praise her and give her a treat. If she wants to move closer to investigate, let her do this - if she would rather move away, that's fine too. It's very important not to force her into situations that scare her or make her uncomfortable, as this will only make the problem worse. You might also want to try a DAP pheromone collar along with a natural calming supplement like Zylkene or Composure to see if this helps. A veterinary behaviorist or a good reward-based trainer would also be very helpful for you, if you feel like you need some hands-on guidance - your vet should be able to refer you to someone in your area who can help, if needed.
3Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on December 15th, 2019
I think it is best to find a vet that will make house calls. Most pets are more comfortable in their own environment. The only other suggestion would be to take her to the vets office like once or twice a week just for a visit and to get treats. Take the treat she likes the most and let the staff feed her and pet her. Then go home. If you make going there a good experience when nothing gets "done" to her she will be less likely to be scared when something is actually going to happen.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on June 10th, 2018
Aww, Bailey is very cute! Well, I’m not sure you will like this answer, but your best bet is to not put her into situations where she is that fearful. Working with a good vet behaviorist or positive trainer (APDT certified or KPA is a good place to start when looking at trainers) can help to teach your dog to be less fearful. Thunder shirts, Adaptil collars (Pheromone collars that reduce stress) and even meds can reduce anxiety You can purchase leashes and leash covers that are yellow and warn people to stay back from your dog but people often rush in without reading them, especially kids. You are right to be concerned though as fear can become aggression if the dog is stressed enough (not will, but can.). Also, being afraid isn’t good for your pup either. My own dog has fears of other dogs and crowds and we have worked hard with meds and training to overcome this. It takes work! In the meantime, best to leave your dog at home and not take her into stressful situations until you have a training plan for her.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on May 29th, 2018
What a cutie! I am sorry to hear about your concerns. It could be she is a shy/anxious dog. You could try some over the counter products for anxiety, including an Adaptil collar or diffuser https://www.adaptil.com/us/Products/ADAPTIL-Calm-On-the-go-Collar and a calming supplement like Composure or Zylkene http://www.vetoquinolusa.com/content/zylkene . If these don't help, you can talk to your vet about if a prescription medication may help.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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