08/05/2026
What do you do with a truly scared dog that won’t go down stairs, won’t move past a scary noise or truck?
Most people think you should just take it slow and use food and slowly work your way at the dogs pace, never forcing the dog through any stress.
They would be wrong. And end up spending way more time than they really need to fix a problem.
Dogs need guidance from us, and the simplest form of guidance is using leash pressure! Show them, help them and reward them for success when they push past their fears and can actually function despite the nervousness.
Once you show them that they can do it, they become so much more confident. This applies to many aspects of life.
Think of your first time on the interstate and driving at the higher speed. I bet that was nerve racking. But after driving for years on the interstate, now you are one handed driving, messing with your Spotify playlist and eating a sandwich.
Do more of what scares you or makes you nervous.
I bet after practicing that speech or presentation for the 100th time, you’ll feel way less nervous.
Dogs are the same.
