What To Do During Puppy Fear Period
What does a puppy’s ‘fear period’ refer to?
What to do during puppy fear period. Firstly, do not panic or react dramatically when a puppy exhibits fearful behavior. During this time, puppies and young dogs may show skittish behaviors towards familiar stimuli and act as if they’re seeing them for the first time, or they may manifest a reluctance to approach new things (neophobia, fear of new things). Carry super yummy treats with you everywhere you go.
This may include things like being approached by a stranger, interacting with another dog who is not so polite (just one reason why you should probably keep your pup away from the dog park), hearing loud noises like fireworks , or experiencing other scary situations. If a pup is scared to leave its crate, ignore her! It is important to be upbeat and excited about new things and encourage your puppy to feel the same way.
Carry a favorite toy with you and play squeaky toys or tug of war. Puppy training is a highly effective way to provide your dog with the ongoing socialization he needs, but that you may be unable or unwilling to provide. She will have to exit eventually on her own.
You may encounter some increased aggression and renewed testing for position and authority. If the dog is out of control, it is all the more critical that you stay relaxed. Try to avoid frightening the puppy during this time, since traumatic experiences can have an effect during this period.
If your puppy seems fearful of a new situation, forcing him into it is the worst thing to do. Expose the pup/dog to new people/pets and experiences and pair this exposure with a favourite food or game. Ask people to give your puppy a treat.
How to help your puppy through a fear period. Allow him to retreat and try again from a distance where he feels comfortable. This is when puppies would learn under the guidance of their mom, which stimuli are threatening and non.