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My rescued dog's fear and snapping worsen when petted. Help!

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Miniature Schnauzer | Female | spayed | 5 years and 4 months old | 12 lbs

My girl was resuced at 6 months old and older lady kept her in a cage beat her with fly swatters and fed her minimally. She has always had ticks head jerks, paw licking and very timid, The last two years it is progressing, she initiates petting then is triggered and yelps or runs has even snapped at me, in a fearful manner. Laying alone calm and relaxed then frantically pacing circles. she is playful with a cat and my daughter (11) and a sweet mellow dog when not having an episode

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By C. Rathjens, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 7th, 2017

I'm so sorry you and Baby are going through this. It sounds like she has some behavioral and mental health issues that would benefit from medication, counter conditioning, and desensitization. I would recommend getting in touch with a veterinary behaviorist right away to schedule an appointment. Here is a resource for finding behaviorists: https://avsab.org/resources/behavior-consultant-near-you-2/ In the mean time, avoid her triggers. If she comes up to you to be pet, only pet her for about 15 seconds and then stop for a moment - if she reinitiates by rubbing up to you, pushing your hand, etc, keep petting (and checking every 15 seconds or so). If she just stands there or walks away, leave her be. That can help give her a chance to disengage before she's overwhelmed. Also, if she shows any aggression or fear towards your child whatsoever, it would be best to keep them separate until her consultation with a behaviorist. Good luck!! Let me know if this was helpful information.

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