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case. A trained pro can help you to find specific strategies that work for that dog. The expense associated with this route is rewarded with a dog who is no longer terrified of everything in their world. "A private trainer or behaviourist should be able to help structure a positive approach to build up confidence in your dog, and also help determine when the dog is capable of class work," Stan Rawlinson suggests. Whether in class or private, timid dogs need a great deal of work that a pro can help you provide.

9. Embrace quiet
Shy dogs are often afraid of loud noises and excitable situations. Try to keep your voice down and your tone even. Don't feel sorry for the dog when they cower away from you. It is best to show that you are nonthreatening. Letting moments escalate into yelling or excited talking will only confuse and scare the dog more.
10. Give them space
Kathy Diamond Davis, a trainer and author for vetinarypartner.com suggests, "Start with the dog at a distance from whatever the dog finds intimidating. When the dog is relaxed, you know you've found the right distance. It may be much further than you would expect." Dogs who are scared cannot handle being crowded. The closer you are to the dog, the more threatened he will feel. Back off and move at his pace. He's the one who needs the help.
10. Patience

"It gets frustrating and disappointing to the family when the newly adopted dog refuses to approach them," states trainer Gayle Cousineau. Patience: it bears repeating. If you were scared, you would want someone to be patient with you while you adjusted. Give you dog the same consideration. Learn how they think and then treat them as you would want to be treated. Then, when the dog is ready, you can cuddle him to you and know that you helped him through a difficult period in his life. And that is the most rewarding treat of all.

Further Reading
http://www.doglistener.com.uk
H elping Your Shy Dog by Deborah Wood

Learn more about this author, Lynda Lampert.
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