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My dog is scared of me after spanking. How to rebuild trust?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Yorkipoo | Male | unneutered | 4 months and 15 days old | 6 lbs

For weeks now, we have been spanking Gordon as discipline. I feel terrible right now because I'm realizing how bad and hurtful this is to him. I really did not know how horrible spanking is for dogs. Recently, Gordon has been scared of me... he is running away from me and he seems more anxious around me. I think this is a direct result of me spanking him the couple of times that he chewed on our shoes.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on August 16th, 2017

Hi! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! When it comes to dog training, positive reinforcement is the way to go. This means focusing on the positive. For example, When Gordon does something undesirable, you firmly let him know that it is not ok and move on. When he does something well, you congratulate him like it is the most amazing thing in the entire world and reward him with treats. I think that Gordon will lose that fear as soon as he realizes that you are not using that sort of training anymore. Good luck!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Gordon maybe shying away from you because of all the negative reinforcement he is receiving. I would recommend avoiding this if at all possible. Sometimes a loud clap of the hands or a stern 'No!' is all that is needed. Also, keep in mind that while it is frustrating, puppies need to chew. To keep him from destroying your things keep him in a crate when you are gone and try to 'puppy proof' the house so he will not have the opportunity to get into things he shouldn't. To help reestablish your bond with him try taking him on a fast paced walk for 20-30 minutes then have a training session with him afterward. Just work on simple commands like sit/stay/come and use a lot of positive reinforcement like verbal praise and treats (lots of treats!). Don't worry, you have not done any long term damage to your relationship with Gordon. He is still very young and you will be able to bond with him as he grows. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck!

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    Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 17th, 2018

    Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Pebbles! Most trainers do not recommend negative reinforcement. Studies have shown that dogs learn better with positive reinforcement. Negative reinforcement tends to cause fear. I would slowly build trust again. Play with her, taker her for walks, give her treats for positive actions, pet her and talk to her and eliminate hitting. I hope this helps and I wish you and Pebbles the best!

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