Learn how to help your fearful dog

[@EastVanC]

More fearful dog training videos please! I have a Blue Heeler mix raised in a barn till 4 months old. I have a positive trainer who has helped, but I just don't believe I should be walking in the opposite direction of every negative stimuli! So I'm also exposing and desensitizing him to all the "scary" things while being careful not to "flood" him.

[@_camy_]

I too use positive training. It helps and works a ton but there are a few things I do that are more like him. I wanna be a balanced trainer and videos like his helps me see a different lens

[@romanaraucinova9953]

@@_camy_ Balanced training 💪👍🤘The way to go about dogs training…"only positiv Folks" would never fix more problematic dogs with fear aggression etc…

[@williamdavis9562]

@EastVanC, With enough desensitization you can get even the most fearful dogs to get over any specific thing. But like you said flooding them too early too see can backfire. But while you don't want to flood them you also don't want to go to slow. I had a dog which was quite a bit more fearful than the dog in the video and it was a long hard road with her. She is still terrified of anything new but through insane amounts of desensitization between 9 weeks and 8-9 months my dog is no longer afraid of other dogs or people. In fact I might have desensitized her a bit too much with friendly dogs because now she assumes every dog is friendly and she has put herself in a few uncomfortable situations because of it lol

[@williamdavis9562]

@@romanaraucinova9953 Only positive training is one of the most ridiculous concepts anything has ever thought up. They should see how mother dogs discipline their puppies. Or how adult dogs treat another pack member if they get out of line. The only positive group are more interested in their emotions than they are of the reality of the world and how things work.

[@TheCreaturekeeper]

I am a Balanced Trainer as well, work with tons of shelter dogs, clients dog in a pack setting for nearly 30 years..All of this is totally legit. Awesome stuff. 🏆

[@williamdavis9562]

Anyone else completely and utterly impressed by this guy's videos?

[@aphaseelec]

He just makes sense compared to all the other so called dog trainers

[@Charlesgraydogtraining]

obvs 😂....it's the clear visibility of Joel's moments when the plan ain't working, and the unapologetic need to be reset; think and feel simultaneously and then try something else ...this is what rocks my dog training world ! "All day long"

[@gisellesotelo8603]

“She’s gotta learn”😭😭😭😂😂TRUEEEE

[@t.lledsmar6052]

Unrelated: good job with prince, I love seeing him in your videos. He is one of the best looking, most well adjusted male dogs I have ever seen.

[@Amayasan]

This is exactly how my girl behaves around strangers. She's great with other dogs, but does that weird fearful yet curious behavior around humans. She's also a rescue with a mysterious beginning to life. It was so helpful to see similar behavior, I've seen very few dogs with her behavior and the strategies are great!

[@OakwiseBecoming]

My dog is fine with people but fear aggression with dogs.

[@Mellyouttaphase]

My dog is scared of people too. She doesn’t like my partner (a tall man) and he is devastated because he loves dogs and we were both so excited to adopt her. I hope she comes around, she’s such a love bug and she is missing out on so much!

[@anxious_and_avoidant]

What you said at the end hit home for me. My stranger danger mini Aussie was raised in a “beautiful facility in the back yard” and I didn’t realize until it was too late that he was not socialized or exposed to anything at all his first 12 weeks of life. We thought because we knew the people and they were good people that they’d be good breeders, but that’s not the case.

[@brooklyntyrrell6823]

The owner seemed pretty willing and smart and with once told what to do (: you’re the best trainer ever

[@sarahhiggins7285]

I appreciated your allusion to the "Real World" as the place where the dog needs to get used to living in. I am a preschool teacher, and I do use the example of the difference between living in "[The Child's] World" and living in "The Real World". Both worlds exist for the child, but when they are in preschool, they are in the Real World, and there are behavior expectations that go along with that!! I also appreciate how you are using your observations of the dog's behavior to inform your training of them. I like all of your communication styles with us the viewers, with the pet owners, and with the animals!! Thank you!!

[@VickyWistuba]

This. I can so relate with my kelpie x collie. Super fear reactive. Hates all dogs running up to her and will defend herself/show them Went through a balanced trainer without success The thing that helped was “having her around dogs without bothering her” joined the local obedience club where dogs are leashed at all times in the training classes. Being around dogs not coming to close has helped SO much. We now do agility at the same club. She is very obedient and has 100% recall. Still doesn’t love other dogs running up to her on the beach but it’s okay. Just happy to know my theory was working and even used by trainers.

[@aliyaanwald6149]

Who else watches every single video he makes??

[@aldrinjulio4165]

for sure man

[@DENVEROUTDOORMAN]

I've seen all his videos over the last 30 years

[@martinavelasco7421]

Me!

[@jamesjefferson8353]

Me

[@barowt]

I don't even have a dog, I have ten cats.. His videos are spectacular!

[@fuumaxkamui]

I just adopted a very fearful white german shepherd who is flying back with me from korea this weekend, so this upload was perfectly timed ~

[@pmlm1571]

Thank you for adopting your dog in need. If I were you, I would consume all of Joel's videos. You will save a lot of time and energy and do what your dog and you need a lot sooner than otherwise. Good luck!

[@annaandersson3907]

What is strange? I don't get it. She is scared but curious.

[@fuumaxkamui]

@@annaandersson3907 I think you responded to the wrong person lol

[@hilja33]

@@annaandersson3907 she’s out of her mind with fear, look at her pacing and dancing around. The crazed barking. For literally no reason, none of the dog displayed anything remotely even intimidating. For a dog to not even know how to read other dogs body language this is extreme.

[@flowin8547]

I am working with a fearful dog that I adopted from Greece for a year now. I started with no experience and didn't know what I'd get myself into. If you watch this video, please don't try this immediately. You need a platform to work on, just like the guy in the video. You need the dog to trust you, and to be accepting and in the best case also returning the love you give it. And I would recommend you to see the first weeks as a pure stress management, find what destresses it and what stresses it, avoid the stuff that does and do the stuff that doesn't. Try to establish a working base (eg. it is not stressed after 5 mins of walking outdoors, only then try 10) and improve on that, and don't try to tackle too much in parallel and know what's most important to you. I love that you're doing this, I just saw your comment and wish somebody had told me those things before I got my dog :)

[@haeuneee]

Please make more videos with fearful dogs! I’ve been binging all your videos. We adopted a 7-month old Australian Shepherd and she is fearful of all dogs and men. Any tips are appreciated.

[@williamdavis9562]

@Hannahbingg, Desensitization. Over and over and over and over again. Eventually they get over it. Just make sure you don't put your dog in a situation where something bad happens which makes the fear get worse. Controlled environments with what ever the dog fears, over and over and over again. To a point you get sick of doing it.

[@akositsirol]

thanks for showing videos of your actual sessions! the videos plus your talk-through are definitely very useful. this dog behaves a lot like the dog that I am currently caring for. Thank you so much and I hope you never get tired sharing your sessions to help people going through similar issues with their pets.

[@tash2166]

You're videos and advice are very refreshing....because you say it as it is without all the BS,you dont use prong collars or e.collars......BREATH OF FRESH AIR.....THANK YOU!!!!!!!!! I'm learning so much....👍😁

[@Charlesgraydogtraining]

This video demonstrates perfectly how Dog Training is an art not a science. Even if you think you have the right technique for the dog that technique can go out of the window with just one sideways look from the dog. The success of any dog trainer is dependent on their ability to be aware that every plan they think will be successful for an anxious dog will need to be sometimes adapted and often abandoned, but perception and awareness always brings success. Thank you so much for this video.

[@mmckerley1]

Great video and I've picked up a couple tips you try with my rescue hound. I believe she was tied to a tree and got lost in the woods. Every sound in the house would cause her to show fear. After seven months, there's been a lot of improvement so there's hope.

[@kbronx64]

I really like this playback style vid. I have a 10mo old lab going thru her fear stage w people only. She's fine w dogs. Lots of useful info regardless of the "why" that I'll use. I'll be taking her to even more public places and work on the desensitization. It was helpful to know to let her express herself, at first, but that it's OK and necessary to reign it in after a time. Thanks so much!

[@felidae2882]

I’m having the fear issue with my pup too, just with people! did yours get any better? would love to know, thx!

[@annmeacham5643]

‘Discipline’ is a neutral term without all the negative connotations and potential misuse of ‘punishment’. Joel has the experience to discipline appropriately, i.e. apply the appropriate correction. Most people who ‘punish’ can get caught up in an ego/power struggle and forget they’re supposed to be teaching, not bullying.

[@wren1114]

Maybe she think she knows Alison. Sad, searching if she lost someone special. That’s the vibe I get. Our dog was super aware of ppl who looked like my daughters (after they went to college & weren’t around as much) So alert. This is a smart lil dog. Needs jobs & games. Our dog was as a young dog reactive to fluffies, too. Grew out of it. Similar build & female. Adopted at a yr from a shelter, btw. Lived to be 17❤️ Desensitization, variety, gently. So cute how she learned fast she could do water, great to grow confident & happy. Nice owner. Thx Joel.

[@karenbonham1359]

I love these my girl is so fearful and I need your help!

[@lisakitteridge8439]

This is fascinating, so similar to my golden retriever. Fear with no aggression. No desire to meet any dogs other than my other dog. Total avoidance when we have been able to get close calmly to another dog. Not sure if it's genetic with mine, I think it's pain related as he has spondylosis, but I think this process would be the same. Gentle desensitisation and slow counter conditioning is finally starting to work after 18months of no progress, but we've just started new stronger pain meds and finally we're starting to see little shoots of hope, reactivity at distance is decreasing. This set up is amazing. Safe, secure and controlled. Great to see. Mine finds on leads dogs slightly easier, less unpredictable, so love that you start on lead then release them. Do you think Prince and the other dogs realise she's nervous so give her a space? Pick up on her body language? Great to see reactivity without aggression - that's my boy!

[@Mylittlefarmacy]

Would you possibly do a video on the different behaviours that you use to determine if the dog has fear aggression or just aggression/ dominance I have been to two different trainers and both have taken a very different stance on him. we have a third trainer lined up but we are now back in lockdown with COVID in Australia

[@hollyrealact]

DITTO. My dog lunges HARD and barks LOUD. Would love to see that addressed. ♥️

[@alexwilhelmi8226]

We have an Egyptian street dog we got from a shelter, she acted like this around other dogs when we got her. Last couple years we've been able to get her to meet some dogs that she actually likes! After watching this video, I learned more! Damn Joel is the man!!!! Thanks brother!!

[@demonmonsterdave]

Thank you for helping all these dogs and owners. The dog on the video is far less fearful than my little puppy in her current environment. My dog Lily is too afraid to do anything wrong, so any kind of correction is irrelevant. She is afraid most of the time. I haven't heard her bark yet. She is getting better, but it's really slow. I am doing everything I can to make her more happy but I've never had a dog like this. I have a garden but she is irrationally afraid of most of it. She has only been in two rooms in my house for the same reason. She is afraid of doorways too. You're right that patience is key. And it's completely true about where they spent their early lives. Lily was born in the jungle and she is afraid of pretty much everything in my house. I also agree with you about walks, but I can't even take her walking because I know she will be too scared. I have carried her but as soon as I put her down she tries to hide. Luckily, I have my own dog partner Bobo who is an excellent friend. There is no evidence for genetic fear in the DNA though.

[@nataliemukka1863]

Again thank you for all your videos

[@ButterflyJak]

Really helpful video. I’ve a rescue malinois x in Cyprus, really scared when we first go her, been a year now and she’s much better, but had started trying to chase trucks, cars, bicycles, strangers, lot more with me then hubby. Had a training session and she was an angel, think she’s scared of the trainer. Not many pavements to walk on here, lots of tracks so when something does come along it can be close. She’s 20 months old now, just hoping I can get her out of it 😬

[@milenataylor2]

I will say this: many people get dogs at 8 weeks old, from a breeder and “somehow” manage to screw the dog up, and then there’s us: we get the dog we get, no history, and we gotta figure it out. Great video, great lessons. Thanks!!!

[@oui2826]

And there's us : people who get a dog at 8 weeks old from a breeder, but we did our homework beforehand, and the dog turns out super fine

[@milenataylor2]

@@oui2826 I love this scenario the best!!! After struggling with my dog, lol

[@robinrutherfordcost4748]

Until recently, have always adopted older dogs from shelters. Some of the oldest dogs I've adopted have been my best dogs! They usually appreciate a good home. And just because you get a puppy, doesn't mean they can't develop issues. Took my first Dobe puppy to a puppy class where they got to run and play together. No structure for the play time and the other dogs who ganged up on my pup. She ended up hating other dogs.

[@myrahouse2368]

The little Dashound I’ve had for a few months now is terrified of my hubby. He’s never harmed her in any way. We’ve desensitised her every day but it’s like ground hog the next day. Thanks for this we won’t stop tying to sort this issue out.

[@pramitaghosh6453]

If possible can you post a video (or videos as I'm sure it's process) on the best way to have an overbearing dog meet small kids (ages 4+) for the first time and how they can play together well? And also what the kids should be taught in being with the dog in terms of respecting the dog's space and how to play together well?

[@clayjhall]

I don't know your dog, or what you exactly mean by over bearing. But, if your dog jumps on anyone you need to punish it by walking through the dog or kneeing them off. That will hopefully prevent any jumping on the kids. For any further suggestions, I'd need to see your dog and/or understand what you mean by overbearing?

[@User7688.--_]

Og, oh, oh, he has a video on that exact thing! I watch it. It was good.

[@EES1994]

Everything you wouldnt want the dog to do to a child, make sure you have the same rules for adults. Eg jumping, licking, rushing up to someone, no barking etc

[@123sette]

Not only do fearfull dogs eventually have to learn to live in 'the real world', they also feel correct corrections from their owner as a big support that finally lets drop their adrenaline levels and lets them feel more secure and confident. You're totally right : they have to have the possibillity to express their emotions for the first minutes (or longer, depending on the case) but then 'an outside force' has to help out and bring that to a stop, in order to give them the possibility to calm down. Great video (y) .

[@dorcasia109]

My old dog Jack I believe had genetic fear. He was afraid his entire life. He was afraid of every human being he met except me and my husband. He hated not having an escape route. Off leash, he avoided people. On leash and in the yard or house he was petrified of any human he saw. He loved other dogs more than anything. He was a street dog and was never abused. He was rescued by a vet as a puppy during the culling they do on the reservations. He lived to be 13 and eventually was relieved of his suffering after seizures he had from a brain tumor. He got better about people only if they sat down but he hid otherwise. I tried everything I could with him. We learned a lot about dogs from him.

[@allisonlevy616]

You have an amazing set up to help dogs.

[@mucbased]

My dog (rescue, 1 year old in a week) does this too. But not with every dog. Some dogs, she "ignores" (still get's stiff and is super focused on it, but is quiet), some dogs get barked at, maybe once or twice and every now and then we come across a dog, that she just can't stand and keeps barking at, until the otder dog is out of sight. When she's off leash, she runs up to the dogs, but keeps her distance (until she stops barking, then she smells them). When on leash, I tried everything to get her attention off the dog. I also tried your method (clap, say "no" or "leave it") and also the correting with the leash, but that doesn't work either. She is a very reactive dog in genereal. Which might be because she was found in an old abandoned house in Hungary when she was 2-3 months old.

[@spee-ider677]

I think that works before your dog reacts, like letting your dog slowly build up and then pop

[@OWK000]

I helped walk and desensitize a really nervous kelpie rescue (35lb similar size and body type to this dog) that was guessed at being around 9 months old when they got her. She was especially terrified of athletic human males and loud people, but just strange people in general. She couldn't even be walked at first and to the end of her life could usually only be walked in neighborhoods that weren't too busy and were close to where she lived or anywhere out in nature was safe to her. I dog parked her and got her owner to dog park her. She was terrified of cyclone fences at first (shelter memories?) and would just run out of the park. Her fear was always more of people than dogs, and she ended up being really good with dogs although she never played with other dog park dogs, she seemed to really like them and would even get crushes on certain boy dogs, usually heeler X dogs and was not afraid of dogs of any size at all and it seemed to make her less fearful of strange humans. Any human with a dog was less scary to her than any human without a dog. She was great in the house and warmed up to guests pretty quickly. Always retained issues though, for instance would freak out at the uphill approach to one dog park because she couldn't see so you had to park on the other side to get her in. While I would do some things differently if I had to do it again, and it wasn't my dog and I didn't have that much say, but I think that particular kelpie rescue dog had some congenital or aggravated congenital nervous problem that you couldn't do much about as well as some early bad experiences. There are definitely a few kelpies around that are way too nervous. We know she was owner surrended by a woman because her boyfriend beat the dog. I used to make her treats out of fresh ground flax seed, skullcap herb and bladderwrack seaweed lumped together with a drop of boiling water and used fresh, before I would walk her. Not all dogs will eat that. She always liked seaweed and would eat it straight. Bladderwrack makes MY nerves feel better.

[@clarebags]

Brilliant video. My dog is clearly wanting to meet other dogs but she initially goes to the ground and snarls and sometimes lunges but once the dog has passed by she is desperate to go smell them. Not sure what the motivation is but she needs to meet many other dogs. She’s only 6 months old and not raised well before I got her

[@jgmgreen01]

Great tips! It will take a lot of exposure and work from the owner, but its not impossible.

[@martinm.6005]

My 9-month-old APBT/Boxer mix has fear that is flat-out hysteria (fear of people and dogs the most). He will non-stop bark and lunge with hackles raised to the point he exhausts himself. I tried socializing with him at a friend's house and he acted this way for 2 hours without stop. I work with him daily. I will not fail him.

[@gloriaradivojevic9221]

I’m slowly desensitizing my chihuahua rescue. It’s extremely difficult to do it in the real world. I’ve tried so many things. I’ll go sit in the park at a distance where I know people will be walking by with their dogs. It usually goes ok at a distance. However what I can’t control is people who have dogs lose and they come running up to her. I lose all control and it’s extremely frustrating. She makes this high pitch yulp like someone is killing her. I’ve been at this for months but don’t have a good space or access to enough dogs to make this better. She has made several friends, but every first meet is stressful. Once we get past the initial meet and greet all she wants to do is play. However, I don’t know what do when someone has a hyper dog walking by that is pulling towards her, and I’ve got no where to go. She absolutely loses it. It literally had me in tears today and I’m getting more anxious of taking her on walks. It’s embarrassing and I feel like a bad pet owner even though she came to us this way.

[@drewd2]

Like another user, I also wonder if this is a coydog. It's definitely mostly dog, but just the way it acts is so coyote-like. Coyotes get intrigued but are super timid.

[@eunice8116]

I think your correct I commented thinking it a phu Quoc ridgeback dog cross or Thai ridgeback they are very skittish he reminds me of them but defo coyote mix I think 😉

[@DanishButterCookie]

Coyote genes are VERY expressive, even generations down the coat color still looks exactly like a coyote, dog will look very primitive. This dog would just be an unlucky amalgamation of different primitive breeds, not a coydog.

[@drewd2]

@@DanishButterCookie I understand where you are coming from and mostly agree, but this dog is young yet and young dogs can hide the traits for some time. My biggest reservation is that the dog doesn't have the coydog bark, but that doesn't mean the dog has no coyote in it, especially if the working theory is that this dog grew up in the fields. If you look close at this dog, there are some physical traits that could be considered coyote-like. For instance, the ears are triangular. If you look at the tail it has the longer hair. The eyes are also a bit piercing. You also have behavior beyond timidness, for instance, how the dog walks with it's head down and trotting at :16 is very coyote-like. I'm no expert, but this is what I'm seeing. I have hunted coyotes and grew up with hunting dogs (although never German Shepherds) so I do have some experience/knowledge. The coyote traits will express much more like you state in a Coyote X Dog Coydog, but a Coydog X Dog Coydog will not express the Coyote nearly as much, so my hypothesis is the latter. @beckman's Dog Training care to get in here and give an opinion? I'm not scared to be wrong just want to know the truth. @Alissa Merstrand, what are you seeing and what primitive breeds do you think would be involved?

[@User7688.--_]

Watch his Getting to Know Me video.

[@michaelwboggs]

Can these principles and techniques also be applied to fear regarding humans that are strangers? Only humans, not other dogs. Thank you.

[@spiritual-bringyourbest209]

This is great and super helpful! I wish I stumbled across this weeks ago.

[@samwell707]

She does look at her owner often. That’s a good sign

[@gigihoover3330]

It's enough, I'm over it is my new motto.

[@wendybrown9035]

This was helpful with lots to think about ... and DO! Great!!

[@timomcintosh8997]

My border collie does that weird scared, but excited thing along with eye contact (she's looking for directions) with some new people and some dogs (or chickens or a plastic bag in the wind, or whatever). I've read that it's a border collie trait. They are drawn into movement and animals cause they want to work, but they need to be cautious cause if on a farm, bigger animals don't always respond kindly to approaching small dogs. I call it my "brave girl" reaction (particularly when its a plastic bag or balloon, lol); she's fearful of moving things, but believes it's her job to interact/work them, but then often just doesn't know what to do besides bark, since 99% of the time they aren't sheep. I've been trying to figure out ways she can "work" in those situations, usually some sort of directional commands (here, there, go etc.) then give her praise for doing a good job. It's a process.

[@allisonlevy616]

Nice work good video . Prince is a great assistant.

[@hmuktiwijaya]

I am quite sure that my dog is geneticly fearful also, not of other dogs, but of people and things. He was hiding under the bed and barking behind doors. Fortunately I was dogsitting a dog that was totally opposite and just happily go everywhere and meet every thing. So I am forcing him to experience new things. I imagine him as a child who has different personality, a careful one. The key to that personality is new experiences. I am going to find your other videos on fear.

[@suemoshier5475]

Mine is not just afraid of dogs but, almost ALL people. I have been working on him getting use to other dogs and people. He has come a long way in the 4months I have had him. He is 14 months okd.

[@shannoncomptom9221]

Thanks you so much for reinforcing that idea. I Have done this with all my dogs to expose them to different things to show they are safe. However I have this dog now she is 6 months old red heeler/ black mouth cure that she is fearful and raised in farm life until 10 weeks old. Owner did no interaction with her at all. So she is terrified of everything. She has improved over the several months I have had her. But how do you address when she runs and hides ? Any tips on this aspect of the fear ?

[@LeonBosset]

I adopted a rescue that was found on the streets of TJ. She is estimated to be over 5 years. She is very reactive of dogs, and often people (there's no way to tell when she's going to lunge at someone). She was obviously in a bad fight at some point (one of her ears has a tear in it), but it doesn't look like fear to me. I keep using your advice, but I'm not seeing any progress. Part of the problem I think is I can't get her in those situations often enough. I'm caring for two older people and it's all I can do to take her on one walk a day. I'm thinking of going to a dog park, but keeping her outside the fence. Maybe the exposure?

[@TheEllyLeon]

Thank for your videos they sre very helpful. We have adopted a year now a 2 year old stray dog from a shelter. She was rescued from the streets when she was around 8 months old and remained at the shelter till she was 2 yrs old till we adopted her. She was fearful of anything and everyone not wanting to exit the house. Now she is doing much better but still fears city noises... motorcycles, buses, sudden encounters with strangers mostly men. We ate working with a trainer that helped us a lot. I would appreciate any suggestions. Thanks Elly

[@LoriMorgan-jm5vk]

I absolutely love this. We have a genetically fearful pup. She is now 14 mo old female. We got her at 8 weeks old. We took her to a dog psychologist and did an immersion program. She does well with dogs now in a pack but is still leash reactive. Her biggest issue is fear of people. She will bark ferociously to get them to go away. She will sneak around behind them. If they hold still she will just sniff but when they move it’s a trigger. Then she tries to bite their feet. How do I desensitize her to movement of people?

[@khadijahdavis1572]

I bet he's an amazing father

[@marioramirez2307]

I apreciate you a lot the comment: we have to live the life no matter how is owr enviroment. That's what we have with no other choice so we have to liveing on, my pets and me . I keep going every day trying to improve to slowly. Again thank you so much. ¡Great Video! 🐕

[@mikaelbravinkarlsson9571]

Good job. I can relate. Keep it up!

[@kategeskin5983]

I think my 2y/o malinois mix has this kind of fear. We worked a lot on meeting other dogs and it was actually successful. He is not barking or running away from other dogs (for the most part). We are kind of making a progress with people too. How would you approach everything else? He is still jumping and flinching away at every person passing in he hallway (hearing footsteps through out the door), and junk that is lying on his way on the street, even leafs moving due to wind..

[@sootudios]

Premature thumbs up because this is what I’ve been looking for and I’m excited to learn!!

[@trinaalurac1131]

Loved this one!

[@peterp797]

Hi just a quick question regarding the slight pull on the leash to correct her behaviour. I was told by a professional dog trainer that collars are not healthy for the dogs if the leash pulls or dog pulling on the leash too much. Whats your opinion on that just want to get a second opinion on it, not in the position to judge. Thanks in advance. My dog kinda hates putting on the harness...

[@suezaple4950]

you have made some awesome points in the video, this was very informative and interesting to watch , I have a feeling she will soon be a happy girl around other people and dogs with your training. loved this video and the steps you have shown.

[@amandacooley1328]

This dog is similar to my 8 month GSD, but mine gets over it in like 5 min. I’ve taken mine to the dog park twice after scoping out the dogs and seeing that they probably weren’t going to run up on her. Mine fear barks with hackles up for the first 5 min and then fine. Should I just keep exposing her and eventually she’ll get more confident at the start?

[@alvaroperezjr9950]

Any thoughts on jumping on things and hiding wherever she can hide. Our lab can be the most playful dog but she can also be a handful jumping on things when she hears loud noises or hiding in small areas or forcing her way in the house. It’s as she’s looking for her safe area which usually results in her making a mess

[@selfcarewithsamcross8101]

My tiny dog is fearful like this. We have gotten the barking and growling “under control” however she is still afraid to meet dogs, be around dogs etc. but she gets upset when they walk away. She wants to meet them and then acts weird when she does. I only introduce her to small dogs because she is so small (barely 9 lb Shorkie) but she gets super weird when meeting them…. Submissive and scared is how I would describe it

[@kumikooo2]

I have a small Chihuahua (4 lb) and he is the same. He has gotten better with barking, but he still does it (and he is loud..). He barks at other dogs AND when the other dogs go away. As soon as we meet them and the other dogs do a move, he runs behind me. And then everything starts again. Sometimes he is not submissive though. I really don't know what to do. If you have figured it out, let me know. Do you just let her bark or do you correct each time?

[@robinrutherfordcost4748]

@@kumikooo2 Victoria Stilwell has an awesome video on the removal technique. Have used this even in classes. So usually first you try to break the stare, do puppy push ups (sit, down, sit, down, sit before they get one treat or you can do sit stand if they won't go down) - get their focus on you and away from the other dog. Sometimes neither works in classes so if the owner tries those methods first to no avail, then I have them say bup, bup, bup (no correction), just take them out of sight of the other dogs - bathroom, office, we have a storage area in the building with no door but there's a black curtain. When the dog is calm and behind the curtain, then they can come out. They really want to be able to see the dog, so they realize very quickly, oh if I bark, I go away. Verbally praise (not too much) for being quiet, interacting with you, etc. If you can get the dog to just sit or check in with you, good. If not, distance or removal is your friend. If you can find another shy dog, something that won't overwhelm your dog, have used 180 degree turns to actually meet on leash. You start going fwd, as soon as they start barking, just turn away from the distraction, head in the other direction, once it stops, head back towards it - who's a brave dog? (Say it when she's quiet of course), then you should be able to get a step closer the next 180 degree turn. You might also practice at a distance of a dog park. You're not going in at all, just doing that exercise around the fence area. As soon as they bark, walk away, etc. Hope that helps.

[@Loki-Rosies-mom]

My GSD puppy does exactly the same thing when meeting people or dogs. It's as though she acts like that to see how the other dog is going to react. I did exactly what you did 😂 I was done with her antics and just let her do her thing and she did but within seconds the dogs were playing together. She's still fearful but like you said it isn't going to be a quick fix xx

[@bobandjerishaffer1001]

This is my first video of yours … excellent. What is your preferred collar/harness for reactive dogs. I use Martindale, slip leads in the proper position or front pull harnesses for some.

[@robinrutherfordcost4748]

Check out Joel's Rottweiler video Creed is the dog's name - it's like the foundation video for the loose leash walking. Love Joel 's videos because he uses equipment the average pet owners want to use - regular collar, front correcting harness, gentle leader which he can wear the dog off of usually within one session sometimes. No prongs, slip leads, or shock collars - pain messes with the brain. Plus he gets reactive dogs meeting and sometimes playing with other dogs in their very first session. He's awesome! No nonsense approach, especially for people who've been dealing with their reactive dogs for YEARS. Hope that helps.

[@robinrutherfordcost4748]

Wean not wear

[@katiejean5879]

Do you have any times for free around kids? My dog is terrified of kids. Tucks her tail to her belly button, barks and lunges. 😢 she's INCREDIBLE when you earn her trust.

[@dla872]

Thank you....thank you.....thank you !!!!!

[@danaya1202]

I'm not really a dog person, I have raised and lost many cats all my adult life. With that said, I LOVE YOUR VIDEOS! I'm not sure why, but it's alluring and most interesting. This video is the first time I've seen a dog client react to one of your assistance like this. Does this behavior happen often?

[@ditzy1953]

Wow! This describes my 3 year old Australian Shepherd/border collie mix, Copper, to a T!! I got so much out of this video. Thank you!! I have a question. When I am walking Copper and an unleashed dog comes up to him as he is lunging, barking, and whimpering, do I keep walking and try to avoid contact? Working on the desensitization takes consistency and so much time. I am told her does great with other dogs at doggy daycare. When meeting other dogs should both dogs be leashed? How does one know?

[@davidbarry2837]

Sounds like your dog is leash reactive, not fearful like this dog if he does well at day care.

[@ditzy1953]

@@davidbarry2837 Yup working on that everyday!!

[@robinrutherfordcost4748]

I've had this happen with my fearful Dobe. He's usually great with other dogs, but I step in front of my dog and tell the other dog No, or Go home pointing my finger as if you're saying Go! so your dog sees you've got this and he doesn't have to react. Hopefully the owner is close by. Be an advocate for your dog. Hope that helps.

[@hi20757]

Hey I’ve got one question regarding reactivity and fear/anxiety. When I’m having people over, should I do the leash and door training before the arrive or have the dogs meet those people outside first?

[@CC-qv3mi]

Have you ever worked with rabbits, or do you have theories about them? There is so little information about rabbits, that I have been using dog videos like this one to deal with the behavior issues of a rabbit that I found, for the past 2 years. They have been extremely helpful with his fear of noises and shadows, temper tantrums, dominance behavior like nipping, and figuring out how to satiate and burn off excess energy with mental stimulation and agility work. Now I found a second bunny and I want to bond them, but the new bunny is either overly aggressive or overly fearful--it's less clear with rabbits than with dogs. She will bite him even through a fence, and he's afraid of her naturally sudden, impuslive movements. They are clearly interested in each other and will lie back-to-back on opposite sides of a fence. When I play ball with one, the other will participate on the other side of the fence. I clicked on this video in part because my dog is undersocialized and fearful of dogs, but in part because I think this could help my bunnies. Any advice on how to translate this work with a fearful dog, to rabbits? (Both were found abandoned in parks, no idea how long they were there; one was about 9 months old, the other 5 months old, clearly abandoned "Easter bunnies".)

[@tc6063-m1h]

I have a fearful dog. He was a rescue found on the street when he was 2- an ex hunting dog. He is 6 now. He doesn't bark when he sees other dogs- he cries. I went to the dog park about 3 times and he spent the whole time running away from other dogs and then he got bitten. Now I just take him on walks but other dogs smell his fear and just bark at him or go for him...which makes him even more fearful. 😔

[@brittbernatchez1909]

Curious what you think...my pup (14 months) is scared of our big stairs, bathroom, car. I've been working on slow exposure to these things and she's doing better but I noticed as soon as I intervene (carrying her, collar grab, leash) she completely refuses to move. Why is she doing this? Is it something I should respect or push through as the "boss"?

[@stray_sketchess4516]

Does he correct on a flat collar or matingale?

[@Drbo222]

Any advice when you have a dog that is so terrified she won’t even go outside? Rescued a 9-month old pitbull/husky/sheppard mix that was on the streets for her first three months and she’s an anxious mess even with medication and positive training.

[@RatdogDRB]

I have a family member with a dog who's always been overly fearful of me. It's odd, I'm a dog person. I've never been harsh towards the dog. Never done anything to scare the dog, or behaved in anything than a loving manner towards her people. All of the family greet me with hugs and I hug them. But she just will not have anything to do with me. One of these times I'm going to try having her "dad" put her on a leash and hand the leash to me and my whole visit will be keeping connected to her with a leash and see if that helps her to get over herself. She's a very good dog, not a mean bone in her body. I think she's just a four-legged chicken (genetically).

[@epbluestar3732]

Can you ever change ptsd fear. A bad experience in the past. Thank you.

[@57colliegirl]

Can you talk about dogs reacting inconsistently on leash with " Leave It" command? Are some dogs protective reactive, or just fearful or aggressive? My 2 1/2 yr old rescue purebred GS is cool with people. Bu t is hyper focused on walk. She reacts to small reactive yappers when they bark first-- some medium sized dogs mostlt. Extreme reaction to muzzled pitbull. She is also highly energetic charging at fence reacting to ALL dogs. Her growls there have declined to deep barks and tail wags kinda in a circle. (?) I tell her to hush it or stop. If she doesn't respond then a loud "hey" will usually settle her. I call come. If she does not come I walk to her. (She can be noncompliant when she chooses.) Also -- what seems to calm and distract her on leash when seeing a dog from a distance is saying "that pup is on a walk". 😊She is very smart! Thanks.i

[@calliopec544]

I’ve watched this one a few times. We rescued a mixed breed (APBT, American bully, border collie. lol) from the local shelter a little over a year ago. He’s perfect with me. He’s good with but so submissive/fearful of my husband. Literally squats and pees if he thinks my husband even Might be upset with him. Scared spitless of my dad, who is a very non intimidating, gentle nearly 80 year old. He does the “rush/bark/nip” at my dad to try to make the scary man go away. The dog is always on leash when he’s around him, so it’s controlled. We’ve done a Ton of desensitization and it’s much better. Still gets overwhelmed on occasion. I don’t know what his history is, but genuinely has the most anxiety of any dog I’ve ever had. Thanks for the videos! They help more than you know.

[@OakwiseBecoming]

He was clearly abused by men. Time and gentle caring is the best thing you can do. I rehabilitated a street cat afraid of people and it took about 3 years before he was a NORMAL cat where he would sit on my lap and purr. I had to wear a heavy winter jacket to protect my arms trying to pick him up before. It was just being patient, never forcing him, letting him learn to trust, and slowly over time he transformed.

[@kathynielsen1661]

I am going through the same with a one year old male Doberman. He's so scared of my son who has never hurt him. We are his fourth home now and have taken him to training. Last home he was in a kennel most of the day and was attacked by their pitbull mix. We are watching these videos and trying to be patient with him. He pees when he sees my son, barks and runs the opposite direction.

[@dddddangel]

Danm my terrier mix rescue is just like this. She has gotten a ton better tho.

[@ddeonu9301]

I have a question to ask...my dog is a 3yo female yorkie, she like dogs she goes up to smell them and wag her tail but when the other dog goes at to smell her she lowers her tail, after a while if the dog is being too much for her or is stepping out of the line (she put) she goes to bite and probably will if I let her...what can I possibly do to stop this??

[@brittneyarsement1786]

She looks exactly like my German Shepard. Has me questioning if I have a German Shepard 😭

[@markeisharobinson6437]

Do you have any videos on older dogs that are fear aggressive or genetically fearful towards humans?

[@rouzwelt1918]

hey there, I have a 8 years old terrier dog, she is a bit afraid of thunder and firework and construction sounds, but never had issue with going outside and always was really passionate about it, but since 12-16 months ago after some days of thunder and rain she started to be afraid of going outside, she comes to yard but refuses to go out of the yard to the sidewalk and street. but when she's outside, she's really nervous and with every little sound like car door close and sounds like that, she becomes distracted and wants to go back home. it started almost a year ago and continued for a few months, the weird thing was that at the time it started, she was ok with walks in the morning but refused and was scared of walks in the afternoons and evenings, then the problem stoped for itself after we stopped taking her out for a couple of months and she was again ok with going outside fro some months, but now it has started again since a couple of months ago after a few days of thunder and rain, but now she is afraid of walks in the morning too but not as much as afternoon walks. I see that she is not as confident as before even in the home and is so conscious(I mean looks a little afraid) of some sounds in the home, like the sound of things dropping and etc. I have tried some tricks for a week now, and I don't see any improvements, actually she now even seems hesitant about getting close to the leash, something which never happened before. I tried to distract her every time a sound goes off and every time she wants to focus on the sound by commands and showing her treats or toys, and give her treats like in the video if she walks aways from home, but after we go past some point she doesn't respond to treat or distractions by toys, gets more focused on the sounds and just wants to get back home. I should mention that she is well trained by myself to a degree she uses bathroom for her business, knows a lot of tricks, obeys me 85 -95% of the times. If I tell her to come with me and walk her more away from home she comes and she sometimes show some sign of enjoyment and sniffing things on the way, but as more we get away from home she becomes more nervous and looks back every 30 seconds but never pulls me because I taught her not to pull, so I try not to put her on more stress and I usually go back home soon. Im sorry it got long but I don't know how to reach to you, I would really appreciate if you could give me some tips and help to make her more confident again.

[@mjh9177]

My mini Aussie is exactly like you describe! Lately, he's now afraid of sneezing! Hang in there. Wish I knew what to do too.

[@rouzwelt1918]

@@mjh9177 I worked out the problem, it's just you need to practice with your dog, try to bound good stuff with outside, like playing, treats, and never push your dog, let him be confortable with comming back to house when ever he feels like it, also I find it easier if you train him without leash as much as possible, it really worked for me, that's all it took for me, basically it was letting my dog figuring it out herself that outside is ok, and fun, with a bit of my help playing more with her outside, and giving her treats and her favorite treats, toys ect outside hope it helps you

[@audramega3910]

When are puppy fear periods? I have a four month old that just started to become fearful of other dogs...

[@andij5249]

A video on fear but not of other dogs or people but the unknown like putting its collar on or I live in Canada and my dog can't be outside without foot cover but I can't get close to him with the boots without him nipping. He also has major anxiety and cries/howls when left alone to the point he has scratched the hair off his muzzle because I was out of the house for a few hours a few days in a row.

[@leeheat333]

Hey - I've watched all your videos before picking up my puppy - 5 days into having her and she acts exactly like this dog. She was a feral pup before being rescued - she's four months old as well. Wondering if I should give her time or not to adjust, but I did try to socialize her a bunch within the first 2 days. She met 4 different dogs and acted just like this. Growled at first and then went right to nipping at them. We went to a coffee shop and she met a random dog, didn't know the person or the dog, but IMMEDIATELY went into play mode with the malmute and everything was good.... brought her to the friends house to meet their dog and did the growl/nip. I corrected it by saying NO and clap, but she keeps doing it every time the dogs come near her... what do I do if she is persistently growling/nipping after I correct her?

[@wippis715]

Could you please make a video about spaying/neutering your dog I see that your dog is not neutered and there is a lot of conflicting information on the internet. I recently got a puppy and want to make sure I do what is best for him. Thanks for making the great videos!

[@hlombardi13525]

Yeah same I have a Newfoundland just a little over a year old now not neutered because I worried about hip dysplasia and etc with getting it done before he’s fully matured

[@mirkkulainen]

If you are going to neuter him, neuter him after his physical development is mostly over, at the age of 2 or 3 years. Early neutering makes your dog grow up weird and can cause problems. It is just very much unneccessary to neuter them earlier.

[@Anon_E_Muss]

If your dog is a large breed I don't recommend neutering them until they physically fully mature at about 2 yrs. Esp the males.

[@hlombardi13525]

@@mirkkulainen I know this which is why I’ve been waiting but some people say that the behavioral aspects of not neutering is worse than having a healthy dog so was interested in his opinion on the topic. I think I disagree with the opinion because with such a big breed like a Newfie with the common issues of hip dysplasia and already short life span in comparison to other breeds. That it’s important to keep them in good health so they can work and enjoy life longer.

[@TheLamphinator]

He is a trainer not a vet

[@foxinthetwilight4046]

I wish I could find a way to do this with my dogs. I don't have friends or family with dogs and I haven't yet found a trainer around me that uses like a helper dog.

[@citroniron8861]

I would love to have someone like Joel in my country. I would drive hours to help my dog with his fear but unfortunately we only have lame dog trainers with no idea how to fix it.

[@catherinehubbard2226]

I have a german shepherd mix that is scared of EVERYTHING and I mean everything since we got him at six weeks. He won't go outside during the day, too much noise and movement. He loves night time and it's the only time he relaxes. We've tried the desensitise method but it didn't help at all. We've also tried the meds route but that just makes him sleep all the time and that's no life for a dog. So over the years (he is now 7) we've accommodated him and he lives quite a happy life. Now enters grandchildren, oh boy the first visit was not good. The problem is he doesn't make a sound, he doesn't growl he just goes in for the bite, which is something he's always done. I know, I know, we've left it very late in his life, but is there anything we can do to help the situation with children?

[@johncorrie1011]

I just got a 2 year old havanese terrier from a shelter and it has a fear of everything about 10 times worst than the dog in this video,I watched your methods that seems reasonable but I don't have access to other dogs or a wading pool so any other suggestions to help I been searching you tube and no one seems to address this issue

[@marioramirez2307]

So my three females street breed are already two years of age but one of'em is still afraid of almost any thing on street. She never enjoy any walk she is always suffering but she is si friendly with any kind of dogs, ¿ what can I do for her ?. Thank you very much !

[@evgeniakutsenko3159]

I have a fearful GSD girl 18 months old. She Barks and lunge at dogs& people on the walks. If she is off leash she will just bark and try to run away( like in the video). She would not let our house guests pet her. I'm using positive training with her.. but she is 70 pounds. I'm wondering if it's ok to use gentle leader or halti on the walks?

[@kory705]

What about this situation....my daughter and her boyfriend got a 13 week old golden retreiver / australian mix puppy and they live with us..they brought him home when my husband and I were out of town, and he is afraid of us....cowers and sometimes growls..especially when they are gone...he will take treats from us when they are around, and then run away...its very strange...we have a yellow lab that he is fine around as well..just doesn't like us...suggestions?

[@pleinaire8698]

YES!! that dog seems more interested in Allison......interesting.!

[@ivyagamet4045]

I am temporarily taking care of a Great Dane, full black body and around 2 years old. I need advice to help make her comfortable and eventually train. She seems pretty fearful, it took her a few days to get comfortable for me to be near her, treats helped a little and meat scraps from cooking made a huge impact. She became used to my habitual cooking and affection, which made her more comfortable. She rarely listens to commands, as she becomes scared when I relay a command, she would not allow me to keep a leash on her and happen to tear it off, she tends to try nipping my old mixed lab at the neck, and is extremely nervous around doors or commands for coming inside. The first night we had her, she would not come back inside, using an e-collar did not help. The owners usually use an e-collar for commands or correcting. Do you guys have any tips? It's hard when she becomes scared and then aggressive, or simply scared and will not listen.

[@MsNoPixel]

Look at those bunny ears on Lola 🤣

[@elizabethseiden7456]

My puppy got out of her leash in my old apartment. I moved to a house. However, a guy came out of nowhere and said he was a helper. He put his hands on my dog’s back. She started biting. He said there’s blood. The apartment manager called animal control. She was put in dog jail for ten days. It was an accident. The picture they took of her broke my heart! I should have told him to keep his paws off of my dog!!! She was defending herself!

[@terridavis9278]

My vet told me my dog has high anxiety and I would never be able to fix it. He was right. Hoping this video will give me something to help out my dog.

[@GustavoRibeirodeMello]

Things can always get better, even if it's slowly. Don't think about fixing, think about improving.

[@selfcarewithsamcross8101]

@@RedErin exactly! We are all a work in progress. “Progress, not perfection” and that includes dogs. When the owner/pet parent or even human parent gives up and says “oh well, this is how he/she/they is” then they have no motivation to improve. Very well said, thank you! I’ll admit tho, it is exhausting…. But very well worth it to have a happy dog or child ❤️

[@mikethemilkman8494]

Vets don’t know jack about dog behaviors. Their solution is to drug until tame. Find a real trainer to assist in helping your pooch.

[@selfcarewithsamcross8101]

@@mikethemilkman8494 so sad that vets end groomers do that 😞

[@LC05]

I wouldn't give behavior advice from a vet a ton of weight. Our girl goes to a vet hospital and has a regular vet that she sees there who knows her really well. Twice she has had to see two of the other vets there due to our regular being out of town, and they have both recommended meds almost as soon as they walked through the door. She is pretty protective, so she barks whenever someone comes through the door that she doesn't know. Here's the thing though, her regular vet immediately figured out that if she can't see me, she is just fine. So all of the exams occur with her in the back where she can't see me. The other vets not knowing this, immediately go into what they know, medicine. Both were floored when they took her in the back and she was a completely different dog.