My dog has severe anxiety around new people/places. How can I help?

Question

One of my dogs (Pit/Boxer mix) has pretty severe anxiety around new people/places. It's sort of hit or miss, because some times she is fine but there are certain days her responses are with fear and occasional aggression. I try to reassure her that the new environment/person present is safe for her (and us) through my touch and voice, but I still can't generally get her to trust the space outside of our home including our well-known friends that only want to be able to comfortably play with her. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 4 months old

Dr. Davis · Accepted Answer

Taking Mina to a group obedience training class can get her used to going fun places and help her relax around other people and dogs. Being able to redirect her behavior from anxiety to performing sit, down and heeling can give them confidence and reduce anxiety. I also like to use the supplement Solliquin for anxiety especially when I'm working on improving this behavior. Usually if your friends ignore her and don't make eye contact then when they are sitting in your home she may come investigate them on her own. This behavior can get worse if you force her to meet people and do things that increase her anxiety. Be patient, changing this behavior takes time and it's often a result of her insecurity so having her learn new things, go new places and get praise and treats for good behavior will make her a more confident and relaxed dog. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Mina.

My dog has severe anxiety around new people/places. How can I help?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

Can I use human contact lens solution as eye drops for my mouse?

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

Why is my new pet biting? Is she stressed or scared in her new home?

Is my pet's occasional sneezing and eye crust a URI symptom?

How to keep a pet mom and her newborn babies warm and calm?

My hamster is suddenly bloated, angry, and biting. What should I do?

Share