Developing a relationship with a shy dog can be so rewarding because, as her trust in you grows, your dog’s personality will blossom and your bond for each other will deepen. It’s not just an old wives’ tale that good things come to those who wait! Patience is essential to building a loving bond with a shy dog.
The Body Language of a Shy Dog
A shy dog will:
- make herself smaller, keeping her body low
- keep her tail low or even tucked
- lower her head
- pin her ears back and down
- squint or blink her eyes
- roll on her back to reveal her belly
- lick her lips
- yawn
So take things slow and read what she’s telling you!
When Meeting a Shy Dog
The best way to approach a shy dog is not to! Let her approach you in her own time. The way humans greet each other – looking straight at someone, leaning forward, reaching out our hands – is very assertive to dogs. When polite dogs greet each other, they approach indirectly, avert their gaze, and then let each other sniff. So make these same sorts of gestures in your own greeting and allow the dog to come up to sniff you.
Lower yourself by crouching or sitting on the floor. Don’t face or look at her directly; instead, turn your head aside. Offer her treats by tossing them toward her in a path that leads her closer to you, and finally feeding her from your outstretched hand. As she relaxes, you can start to stroke her under her chin and on her chest. Petting the top of her head is an assertive gesture, so start from underneath and let her warm up gradually before making more bold gestures.
As Your Love Grows
Over time you and your dog will become comfortable with each other and your love will grow. Your dog will act more confidently around you, but may still be uneasy with new people. So keep an eye out for what she’s telling you around other people. Does she lip-lick, shrink a bit at your side, even hide behind you? Take note of these signals and do what you can to keep your pup at a comfortable distance. Ask the person to avoid looking directly at her while tossing her treats. As she gets more comfortable, ask them to crouch and offer her treats from their hand, letting her move closer in her own time. She may even allow caresses under her chin or on her chest. Slow and steady wins this race!
The sooner you begin exercises in meeting new people who offer her wonderful treats, the better. Strangers should be part of the landscape of her life so that she gains confidence with everything and everyone she comes in contact with. Gradually, over time and with many good experiences, she will learn that strangers often provide tasty gifts for her and she will grow to love them!
On Thursday, there will be a follow-up article on helpful hints for life with a shy dog. So give a peek back!
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