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What to do with a fearful puppy

Even though you're providing your pup with a caring, loving home, you may find your new pet is fearful and nervous. This could be due to the pup's previous environment, or it may be an inherent trait in the pup - some breeds or lines can have a nervous streak. If you have fearful puppy, there are plenty of things you can do to help build your pet's confidence.

Puppies that need a confidence boost are ones that are especially timid around strangers, and possibly even family members. These pups may cower, or roll over to expose their bellies as an act of submission. They may also urinate as a submissive gesture (a separate issue to housetraining), as a way of bowing to your higher rank. Very nervous pups can 'fear bite', which in their case shouldn't considered an act of aggression.

Your shy, nervous or fearful pup will benefit from professional dog training, and your veterinarian will also have some advice, and be able to suggest the most appropriate type of training. The vet can also rule out any underlying medical problems that may be behind the fear.

Other suggestions for owners with fearful pups:

• A regular routine, with walks and meals at the same time each day, will help your pup feel more secure. Be consistent in all areas.
• These pups will appreciate a benevolent boss, so work on your status as 'leader of the pack'.
• Be an example to your pup: be confident, bright and breezy. Your pet will pick up on your mood.
• Negative reinforcement should be avoided at all costs - verbally berating or physically disciplining a fearful puppy will compound the damage, and could illicit fear biting.
• Use loads of praise with these dogs, in a happy, buoyant voice. Ignore your pup's fearful behaviour - speaking in soothing or comforting tones when the pup is acting scared reinforces fear as an acceptable behaviour.
• Don't put your pup in a position you don't think they're ready for. Start by putting your dog in situations where you know they will succeed, and take it from there.
• Avoid direct eye contact, which can make the dog feel more submissive.
• Dogs can be desensitised to the things they fear (such as thunderstorms), but don't attempt desensitisation without a vet's or trainer's guidance.
• Ignore submissive urination, which usually occurs when your pet greets you. Teach your pet to sit and shake hands to greet you, and reward with plenty of "goooood dogs" and treats.
• Your pup will take time to build confidence, don't expect too much too soon.

You've read a lot about the importance of socialisation, and fearful puppies still need to be exposed to a wide range of new situations and people. These pups need the same level of socialisation as other pups, but be careful not to overwhelm your shy pet.

With love, care, encouragement and patience, your fearful pup can grow into a confident dog.