My dog cowers and hides when I come home. How do I rebuild his trust?

Question

In the beginning of December 2019, when I got home from work my pup and I were very excited to see each other and there was petting and love. However he jumped up and accidentally scratched a terrible burn I had gotten cooking dinner the night before. It hurt so bad and I screamed. Ever since he has associated me coming home from anywhere negatively and cowards away from me and tries to find another family member to protect him. It is very upsetting because he is my dog and I want him to be as h. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 4 years and 1 month old | 22 lbs

Shaneez Wallani, DVM · Accepted Answer

Aww, poor Nike! I recommend that you try to do some desensitization and counter conditioning here. Keep some treats in your pocket or by the door, and when you get home, call Nike and throw the treats away from yourself and towards him. You can slowly toss the treats closer and closer to you each time you come home so that eventually Nike feels comfortable coming up to you again. Take it slow, and if you notice him looking nervous, don't toss the treats closer to you. Keep them at a distance that allows Nike to feel comfortable, and only move the treats closer when he is not showing signs of stress like cowering away. I think you'll eventually be able to get him back to normal. I hope your burn heals up soon!

My dog cowers and hides when I come home. How do I rebuild his trust?

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