by Louise Frank

Created on: September 21, 2011

IT can be a scary world out there, but even more so if your start in life has been marked by cruelty, neglect or indifference. It's a big decision to get a rescue dog and you may fall in love with a quiet and shy animal thinking that as soon as you get him home in a secure and loving environment he will quickly turn into a confident animal.

This is unlikely to be the case because most rescue dogs come with a considerable amount of psychological "baggage". But the good news is that there is a lot you can do to help your new dog feel more secure. It may well be a frustrating and challenging experience but it will ultimately be rewarding and result in a close and happy relationship with your pet. Here are some ideas for making your dog more confident:

1.  If your dog is timid in the home, hiding away behind the furniture, for example, then patience is required. Don't try to force him to be sociable. Ignore the behaviour and carry on as normal. Put some treats out in the open and see if he'll come to them. Praise him when he does something that, for him, is brave. 

2. He may be fine when everything is going according to plan but then become fearful when something out of place happens. He may hate loud noises, sudden movements or a changes. Try to establish a routine with your dog and minimise the upsets. 

3. When you are out with your dog learn to recognise the signs that show he is becoming anxious. He might start to breathe faster, to tremble or refuse to move. See what he's looking at to identify the threat and gently, without fuss, remove yourselves from it. If feasible, divert his attention from what is frightening him. Attract his attention to something else like a toy or a treat while you place yourself between him and what is scaring him and gently lead him past.

4. Dogs are sensitive to human feelings and can take his cue from you. If you are feeling anxious about him feeling worried, then it can be a self-fulfilling prophecy.  Don't pity him, he will see your sad looks and act accordingly. Be happy and confident and talk playfully to your dog, without being too loud, when you think he is beginning to feel under stress.

5. If your dog acts "bravely"  one day, then praise him. It could be something as simple as passing a gateway that he is normally anxious about. When he acts confident around you by being playful for asking to be petted, then reinforce this behaviour by praise.

6. Be careful around over-friendly humans.

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