How to help my dog overcome fear of people after a traumatic incident?

Question

So my white/brindle dog is a pitbull mix with border collie and heeler. This summer he witnessed someone physically attack me, and ever since he has been so afraid of people. Constantly growling and barking at people he doesn't know well, or complete strangers. He was sooo sweet before the incident, loved people. He is still sweet to the people he does know, but I just have no idea how to break him of this fear. Any advice? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 8 months and 19 days old | 53 lbs

Dr. Elizabeth · Accepted Answer

I hate to hear you both went through this trauma and unfortunately there is not an easy answer or easy advise to give. Dogs can suffer from PTSD type problems like people and until he has multiple, positive encounters he will not be the same. The other issue as well is that he is a large dog who is barking/growling and strangers are not going to approach him. In Hades brain, he does to want people to approach, so he barks. Of course, people do not approach so in Hades brain, he wins. He is having positive re-enforcement so he keeps doing it. This is a complicated situation that is best dealt with by a professional trainer who understands how dog's brains work. Because there are some aggressive signs already being shown, you need to stop him at this behavior before it escalates. You do not want a dog bite situation. I hope this helps to lead you in the right direction.

How to help my dog overcome fear of people after a traumatic incident?

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