how to approach a nervous dog

Training tip from Andrew (Andrew@dog-dayz.com): 

How do you approach a nervous dog? The human side of us wants to extend our affection towards nervous dogs. This makes us want to pet them, hold them, talk in a baby voice to them and other things we might do to soothe another human. 

For most nervous dogs, this tends to be far too strong of an approach and can send the dog further into it's shell or in the worst cases cause a bite.

The best gift you can give to a nervous dog is the gift of space. Try not to approach at all until the dog naturally approaches you, smells you and gets to know that you are okay. Safe the pets, eye contact and other signs of love for when the dog feels you have earned the right into their personal space.

When the dog gets comfortable with sniffing your legs, lower yourself so he or she can smell more of you while still not acknowledging the dog.

Repeat this for a while and the dog will eventually be begging for your affection. Give a nervous dog time and eventually the nervous dog will give you everything.

If you have any questions or have a nervous dog yourself, feel free to e-mail me at Andrew@dog-dayz.com.