How To Calm Down A Scared Dog: 10 Steps To Relaxation

While some dogs enjoy lots of physical contact, others don't. Being aware of where and how dogs want to be petted is a crucial first step in ensuring that you respect both your relationship and their boundaries.

The appropriate kind of pet care can greatly strengthen your relationship. Most dogs like to have their tummy, chest, and backs petted. Some people enjoy a good chin tickle, while others prefer a good hip scratch.

While you pet your dog, observe their body language to get a sense of where they want your attention and where they would prefer to be left alone.

Continue reading to learn where dogs prefer to be petted and where they don't, as well as advice on how to pet dogs the right way.

1. Recognize your dog's warning signs of fear

Recognizing when a dog is experiencing anxiety is the first step in healing them. Dogs usually show mild symptoms of dread before it becomes more severe. Keep an eye out for these typical signs:

  • Tucking the tail
  • Shaking or trembling
  • Panting excessively
  • Barking or whining
  • Isolation or concealment
  • Pinched back ears
  • "Whale eyes" (showing the whites of their eyes)
  • Excessive yawning or lip-licking 

Recognize these early warning signs before your dog's fear intensifies.

2. Create a safe and comforting environment 

Providing a secure environment for your dog is essential once you've determined that they are afraid. Its a great idea to designate a particular area of your house as your dog's "comfort zone." This could be a kennel with a blanket over it, a peaceful room, or simply a box. It doesn't really matter what space is, as long as its a place that they can retreat to whenever they're overwhelmed.

To improve this safe space's relaxing effects:

  • Consider using blackout curtains or dim lights
  • Play relaxing music or white noise to drown out unwanted noise
  • Give them reassuring, familiar things like their bed or favorite toy

3. Keep your cool and use calming body language

Dogs are very sensitive and sense our feelings. That's why it's critical to maintain composure when your dog is frightened. It's common for a dog's fear to worsen as a result of the owner's anxiety.

Use these techniques to project a sense of calm:

  • Speak in a calm, gentle tone
  • Move in a slow and calm manner 
  • Sit or kneel to appear less intimidating 

You'll see dramatic results by just changing your behavior. It's remarkable how quickly a dog will respond to your calmness.

4. Use quick calming techniques

When faced with a frightened dog, there are several techniques that you can use to help them relax quickly:

  • Give your dog a gentle body or ear rub
  • Petting should be done slowly 
  • Divert their attention by giving them a treat or chew toy
  • Consider using a commercial anxiety wrap or a tight blanket to keep your dog comfortable

One technique may not be enough, but if you combine the use of distractions along with soothing, you will get results. For instance, giving them a gentle massage while they're wearing a tight "thunder shirt".

    5. Use desensitization techniques

    One effective strategy for dealing with your dog's phobia is desensitization. Gradually exposing your dog to the thing that triggers their fear in a safe, encouraging manner is very effective. Here's a brief rundown of how to do it:

    • Start with a low-intensity trigger (like a quiet recording of thunder)
    • Attach a positive activity, such as playing or treats, to the trigger
    • Gradually raise the trigger's intensity as your dog gets more accustomed
    • Your dog should never be pushed beyond their comfort zone

    It may take several weeks, but by gradually exposing your dog to their trigger while offering high-value treats, you can transform the trigger from a source of fear to a predictor of good things.

    6. Use positive reinforcement training

    Positive reinforcement is quite possibly the most effective training philosophy when it comes to reducing your dog's fear and anxiety. By rewarding calm behavior, you can encourage your dog to respond positively to scary situations. Here's how to do it:

    Conclusion

    Petting is more than just a means of expressing love. Petting a dog can help foster calmness, lower stress levels, and increase trust. You can make the encounter safe and fun for you and your dog by knowing where to pet a dog and taking into account their preferences. Always be cautious when approaching them, respect their personal space, and enjoy the moments of connection that occur during petting.

    Access The Training Now

    Get Instant Access Now

    We process your personal data as stated in our Privacy Policy. You may withdraw your consent at any time by clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any of our emails.

    Close