08/15/2026
Pro Tip #1 (hopefully the start to a new series, we'll see if inspiration continues to strike haha)
Does your dog really trust you?
I've asked this of clients before and the answer is usually yes. But do they really?
When your dog is scared do they look to you for confidence and assurance or do they react through balking, barking, lunging, or avoidance. A scared dog can convey it's fear in many ways, with reactivity or shut down behaviors being the most common.
This is a very complex subject we could discuss for days and is very dog dependent but here are a few suggestions to help your pup be more comfortable out and about...
1) Expose them to new surfaces regularly. Some easier to find options would be a wobble board, stepping blocks, lattice, tarps, sand, gravel, rocks, moving docks, bridges, grates (with safe spacing), open/closed steps, elevators, etc. Also remember dogs do not generalize. Practice these things in different places.
2) The moment you spot hesitation make it a party. "Whooo! What is that! Let's go look at it!" 🥳 🎉 and encourage them gently to investigate the new object. You can utilize treats or a toy to make it a fun expereince as well. *Do not force interraction*
3) If you know another confident dog, walk with them so your pup sees another dog not reacting to the situation.
4) Do not avoid scary situations just because they are scary! If you allow your dog to avoid the scary thing every time there will be no improvement. Work on gradually getting closer every time and you can quit the session after some improvement has been made, even if its just one step closer.
The pictures below are from my most recent trip to TN where Wren (4) and Rhys (5m) went on a ski lift (yes a regular old ski lift) to the top of a mountain. We then walked across a suspension bridge with wood planks, metal grating, and a 30 ft section of glass all while 450 ft above the ground and they didn't even bat an eye. That took some serious trust (and shocked me to be honest.)
Homework this week: Ask your dog to go or do something new. Even if its just a new hiking trail. How'd they react?
