by Janet Farricelli CPDT-KA

Created on: November 09, 2008   Last Updated: November 18, 2008

Timid dogs have lost that special spark in their eyes, they walk with their tails between their legs and their head carried low in an overall submissive state of mind. These dogs have basically lost their state of confidence, many times because of the way they were raised or their inherited temperament, but more often than not, because of human neglect or even abuse.

Should you rescue, foster or adopt a timid dog there are many things you can to do to help raise its confidence levels and trust humans again, leading that happy and healthy life they deserve. Try to abide to these general guidelines and shortly your dog may live to its full potential again.

Start with a Physical

Start out by having your dog seen by a veterinarian. Sometimes apparent shyness is due to a physical problem such as chronic pain or a condition such as epilepsy or thyroid problmes. This should be the first step when dealing with a timid dog. In some cases, dogs that appeared to be bashful simply had vision or hearing problems.

Keep Noises to a Minimum

Timid dogs may easily startle at sudden loud noises. Try to keep these noises at a minimum at first. This applies especially to dogs with a history of abuse. You may keep some "white noise" on to cover up loud noises if they are unavoidable. White noises consist of steady noises such as those emitted from a television or a radio station.

Watch your Tone of Voice

Abused, neglected or timid dogs will also get startled by loud voices. Some dogs are very sensitive to tones of voices. Try to keep voices low and calm. Avoid children until the dog is calm enough. Children's acute voices may startle timid dogs causing them to hide, shiver and even bite should they feel threatened enough.

Do not move suddenly

Quick unexpected movements may startle timid dogs especially if they were abused. Many will cower as you suddenly reach for something or may get startled if you get up suddenly or run towards the door or phone. Be self conscious of your movements for the first few days and try to think as a timid dog, anticipating his/her response to yor actions.

Be at His Level

When you pet your timid dog try not to pet him/her by standing up and bending down. This may feel threatening. Rather, simply sit down with your dog. Your dog will naturally come to you as he sees your for the first time at his level. Try to keep at his/her level for the first days until he seems more confident.

Praise for the good

While disciplining works for normal dogs, you want to keep corrections

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