This topic should be divided into three parts:
- What you can do right after a difficult situation for your dog that just has occurred;
- What you can do to help your dog get through a difficult situation;
- What you can do in a situation of chronic stress.
Today, we will discuss how you can help your friend shortly after something has stressed them out, e.g. what to do when something scares them (clash with another dog / some unexpected, loud noise, etc.). Walking on a short leash next to another dog can be stressful for many dogs: passing by strangers, walking past a tram, etc. It all depends on previous experience. To know what is stressful for your four-pawed friend, learn the secrets of dog body language, which is a fascinating and significant topic. Exploring the secrets of this language will be very useful for you 😊
But let’s get back to today’s topic.
After your dog gets scared of something, I assume they run to you. (Otherwise, consider consulting a behaviourist*. If your dog doesn’t come to you for help, it may mean that something in your relationship is not working as it should, and it is worth fixing.)
If your friend hides behind your legs from the chasing dog, try to block the intruder. I am not urging you to contact an unknown dog directly. However, you can block his way and ask his guardian to call the dog away.
When your friend comes running for help, you can crouch next to him to show that you have noticed the message and are there for them. For some dogs, this gesture is enough. Other dogs will enjoy your touch as well. Pet the dog on the side. Don’t embrace them! It would limit their mobility, and in an emergency situation, the dog wants to be able to escape.
You can also talk to your dog in a reassuring tone. What you say doesn’t matter; the only thing that matters is how you do it. Have a calm voice; that’s enough.
If the danger is gone, help your dog relax.
“You can sit somewhere together. Talk to your friend in a calm tone and stroke the sides of their body with slow movements (provided that your dog likes being touched, of course);
– If your pet likes to carry something in their mouth – give them a favourite toy to hold;
– Do you have a tug with you? If so, offer a moment of fun. Make the toy move slowly along the horizontal line of eight. From time to time, let go of the toy to see if your dog wants to stretch or if they prefer to go away and enjoy their prey alone;
– Throw a handful of small treats into the grass. If your dog doesn’t start looking for them, don’t encourage them to do so. Apparently, they need one more moment to cool down. Walk around and return in a few minutes so your friend can look for the treats.
– Remember that some dogs find digging holes or biting a stick helpful. Don’t forbid it. In this way, your friend tries to relieve stress on his own 😊
In ten days, I will write how to help a dog go through a difficult situation 😊
*If you need an online consultation, don’t hesitate to get in touch with me:
Email: info@baronsacademy.com
Telefon/WhatsApp: +48 509-989-639 lub +44 (0)7591 6373 50
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