My dog is suddenly scared of me and avoids me. What can I do?

Question

My and my sweet Merida (Standard Poodle) were always best friends. She always followed me everywhere, and I don't remember ever yelling at her or hitting her. Recently she has started avoiding me, and she shows signs of fear towards me. She runs away whenever I call her to me. When I come home, she runs halfway towards me, stops, then runs to greet everybody else. It breaks my heart that she is acting like this. Please help! Pet's info: Dog | Poodle | Female | spayed | 4 years and 10 months old | 34 lbs

Dr. Davis · Accepted Answer

Something must have scared her and it will take some time to get her to relax again. I would ignore her, go sit in the room with her and have very tasty treats ready. Hopefully Merida will investigate the smell of the treats and you can offer them to her. I would only reach for her if she's relaxed and not hold her if she wants to get away. Gradually she'll learn you always have good treats and she will relax and start to come to you again and then you can start petting and playing with her. Please be calm and speak softly and even play with her toys without looking at her. She should become curious and want to join in. Again this may take some time and if you are too loud or forceful it may make her more fearful. Be patient and things should gradually get back to normal. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Merida.

My dog is suddenly scared of me and avoids me. What can I do?

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