Dos and Don'ts

Please also refer to How to help shy dogs for specific ideas to handle specific situations.

ANY dog should know these, but shy/fearful dogs definitely!!!

DO make sure your dog knows these 5 commands

1. Sit
2. Down, lay down
3. Stay
4. Come, come here
5. Leave it, drop it, enough, no (this applies to stopping the chase of neighbors or animals, too much rough-housing, too much of anything, and stopping that behavior immediately when requested)

DO give praise and treats for all behaviors you want to see even if it's a STEP in the right direction

DO have patience and give the dog time. We don't know how long it took to make them this damaged, but it will take time til it gets better.

DO know the difference between discipline and pity. Discipline provides structure and creates trust of who the pack leader is, YOU.

DON'T feel bad for your dog and it's back story. Be aware of it and wait for change. But don't throw the pity party when they misbehave and chew up things or be aggressive.



DON'T ever force them to do anything they don't want to do. If a dog feels it can't run away it WILL make an offense and defend itself through aggression.

Joey got to a bottom of a yogurt cup when daddy wasn't looking and got it stuck.

DON'T expect a shy dog to ever be perfect. They may always have their quirks. Humans aren't perfect, why should they be?