How to Approach a Fearful, Shy, or Aggressive Dog

Dogs express fear and aggression through their body language, displaying signs like shivering, cowering, tucking their tails between their legs, and averting their eyes. Additionally, dogs often show aggression when they are scared. Although you might want an aggressive dog to trust you, it's not always possible sometimes it's best to leave the dog alone.

Be very careful when approaching a shy, fearful, or aggressive dog, as your body language and demeanor are also important. If you notice signs that the dog may bite, do not approach it. In such cases, find the owner or contact local animal authorities. If you believe it's safe, you can use some tactics to approach the dog.

Don't Loom Over the Dog

An anxious dog might become more stressed if you stand facing it, looming above. It's easy to see why a fearful dog would feel threatened by someone much larger. Be mindful of your body position when approaching any new dog, especially a scared one.

Get Down on the Dog's Level

Approach a fearful dog by getting down to its level. Avoid being directly in the dog's face, but remember that you're less threatening when not towering above. You can squat or sit close to the dog. For very fearful dogs, consider lying down a little distance away to make it more comfortable with your presence.

Turn Sideways

Turn slightly so your side faces the dog, perhaps leaning slightly away. This position isn't natural for most people; good manners typically require face-to-face meeting and eye contact. However, for dogs, this behavior is rude, and a fearful dog may see you as a threat if faced head-on.

Avert Your Gaze

Humans usually see direct eye contact as normal with others, but for dogs, it's often seen as rude, threatening, or aggressive. To appear less intimidating to a frightened dog, avoid eye contact. Instead, slightly turn your head to the side and avert your eyes.

Speak in a High-Pitched Voice

Deep, low voices can intimidate a fearful dog. Speak to the dog in a higher-pitched, happy tone. Men might find this challenging; try speaking more quietly while staying upbeat. A quiet, reassuring tone can greatly help in calming a nervous dog.

Never Punish a Fearful Dog

It may seem obvious, but never scold or punish a fearful dog; it only increases their fear. You may also endanger yourself, as higher anxiety levels make the dog more likely to bite. Avoid using aversives when training a fearful dog, as they often hinder progress and escalate fear.

Don't Force Things

Give a dog the chance to become comfortable and approach what scares them on their own. Never force interactions. For example, if a dog fears men, don't hold their collar while a man approaches to pet them. This increases fear and the likelihood of biting. Most dogs can slowly be introduced to what they fear, but a frightened dog is often not ready for more challenges.

Stay Positive

Training can greatly boost your shy or fearful dog's confidence. Positive reinforcement dog training allows you to communicate with your dog without surpassing its comfort level. Training can begin without requiring any actions from the dog. As your dog learns and gains confidence, many fears will decrease or fade away.

Problems and Proofing Behavior

While the tips above assist with an anxious and upset dog, you might also help your pet overcome specific fears. Gently expose your dog to a feared object or person from a safe distance that doesn't provoke fear. Act casually and slowly inch closer, stopping if your dog shows fear. You may even need to step back.

Praise or gently offer treats to your dog whenever they do something you like, such as approaching a feared object or person. Over time, your dog will better understand your expectations and realize they will be rewarded for those actions. This will boost their confidence and increase the likelihood of repeating desired behaviors.

Repeat this process every day or two for about 10 minutes each time. Depending on your dog's level of fear, several sessions might be necessary to notice a difference. Be patient and persistent.