Common Dog Fears and How to Ease Them (Part One)

Sometimes the things that we love about our dogs can also drive us a bit crazy. After all, you may love that your dog is inquisitive and highly-aware. But, the flip side of that can be cautiousness and sensitivity towards seemingly mundane things! 

In this article, we’ll talk more about the most common fears in dogs and how you can help your pup build confidence.

First, a word on phobia versus fear
Most dogs have a good balance between curiosity and cautiousness that allows them to explore new things while avoiding danger and pain. But, in some cases, that cautiousness can transform into a phobia. 

Phobias are maladaptive responses to anything your dog may perceive as a threat. We say maladaptive because while fear is something that protects your dog from harm, a phobia can actually do more harm than the source of the fear itself. That’s because the high level of stress on the nervous system can lead to adverse health outcomes. And, the tactics that your dog may use to flee from the threat, such as trying to run away or fight anything in their way can also be dangerous.

Some signs of phobia in dogs include uncontrollable shaking, panting, pacing, urinating, crying, snapping, and trying to escape. If you notice these symptoms, we would suggest seeking out the help of a professional, such as your vet or an animal behaviorist. 

If, on the other hand, your dog’s fear manifests as nervousness, avoidance, and barking without such extreme reactions, then these tips—and plenty of patience—may help them overcome their fear!

Fear of the harness or leash
You would think that your dog would be enthusiastic about getting ready to go outside! But many dogs may shy away from the mere sight of the harness or leash. What’s going on here?

There are a few reasons why your dog may fear the harness or leash. It’s possible, for example, that their skin or fur once got caught in the buckle. With the leash, they may remember back to when it got caught around their leg or it could be that it makes a certain snapping sound that they don’t like. 

Dogs have pretty good memories of things that hurt them in the past, so even if you’re very careful when putting on the harness and leash now, they may have a lingering fear. You can help your dog by coaxing her to you with treats in one hand and the harness in the other instead of chasing her around the house and forcing the harness on. If you can be patient for a few weeks, it will lead to faster leashing-up times as your dog starts to associate these items with treats.

Fear of car rides
Some dogs love to hop in the back of the car on the way to their next adventure, but others are more wary of this huge, loud, moving machine. And, if your dog is untrusting of cars, every trip to the dog park or vet can feel like a battle.

A while back, we wrote an article about 5 reasons why dogs hesitate to get in the car. Some of the most common include a fear of the car itself, conflict with your other dog that may jump in first, or associations between the car and negative past experiences like vet visits. 

It’s important to think about what exactly is causing your dog to fear the car so that you can create a treatment plan. If, for instance, they dislike the movement, consider taking them on very short, smooth car rides with plenty of treats, verbal praise and distractions. If the problem is the vet, consider driving to the parking lot and giving them a reward without going inside. And, if the problem is your other dog, it might be helpful to have your fearful dog get in the car first or work with an animal behaviorist.

No matter the cause for nervousness around the car, one way that you can keep your dog safe is by installing BreezeGuard Screens, which allow you to keep the windows open without your dog being able to jump out. This will give your dog some fresh air, which will help to orient them and give them something to focus on.

Fear of bathtime
One of the most puzzling dog fears we owners face is the absolute rejection of bathtime. After all, your dog may spend hours playing fetch at the lake, run through every sprinkler they can find, and even roll around in puddles after a rain. But willingly and calmly get in the bath? Not a chance!

But, when we take a moment to think about why dogs may shy away from bathtime, it makes sense. The bathtub is slippery, enclosed, and echoey. Plus, your pup may not enjoy the smell of their shampoo or the pain that comes with getting soap in their eye. All in all, a bath is really not like a dip in the lake at all.

You can take a look at our full guide on how to bathe a dog that hates baths. But, the gist is: take it slow, offer your dog plenty of treats or a lick mat, and consider bathing them outside if possible. With enough positive reinforcement, your pooch can learn to at least tolerate the bath. That will show that they’ve replaced fear with displeasure, which is a step in the right direction!

Remember to be your dog’s biggest cheerleader!
No matter what fear your dog is working through, remember that you have a huge influence on how your dog perceives the world. And unfortunately, getting discouraged or frustrated with a fearful pup is likely to make the situation worse. 

On the flip side, If you’re able to guide them through their mental barriers with kindness, patience, and plenty of encouragement, you’ll be amazed at how much progress they can make towards becoming brave.