How do you fix social anxiety in dogs?

To help dogs that struggle when they are left home alone, dogs need to learn that it is alright to be left at home on their own. Dogs are social animals, and they need to learn that it is ok to be alone. To help prevent problems from developing, puppies need to learn to feel confident and relaxed when alone, in a very gradual and positive way. If you identify signs that your dog may be worried, talk to your vet about a referral to a behaviourist. Programmes usually include a number of different elements, which might include the following aspects: encouraging your dog to not be too reliant on your attention when you are at home, so that they can cope better when you are not there, gradually teaching your dog that it is ok to be alone in the house through a process called ‘desensitisation and counter-conditioning’, changing any associations your dog may have made about the events leading up to you leaving the house, in some cases, making sure that your dog has had sufficient exercise and mental stimulation to help them settle down when left. A behaviourist will be able to work with you to help change the way your dog feels and behaves. In most cases of separation anxiety, behaviour modification programmes alone are sufficient to resolve the problem.

To help a shy or fearful dog gain confidence, expose them to what frightens them at a low intensity and pair this exposure with something positive, like a tasty treat. This is called counter conditioning and desensitization, and when done successfully, it helps them feel more comfortable around the source of their fear. Allow your dog time to get used to people, and instruct others to ignore your dog, letting them decide whether they want to approach someone. Dogs that adjust on their own are more likely to approach people safely. Approach dogs at their level, crouch down or sit on the floor, and don't stand over a dog. Throw out treats, decreasing the distance for a safe interaction, and don't interact with them until they're ready to take a treat from your hand. Build up trust with your dog before bringing them to public settings like the dog park, a friend's house, or a dog-friendly restaurant or brewery. If your pup is shy or fearful of other dogs, don't force the interaction, and give yourself some space by going to the other side of the street or moving off the path. Most fearful dogs gradually improve with time, training, and trust, but they won't likely become outgoing if they're naturally nervous or shy. Treats and happy, positive interactions can go a long way, but don't expect a total transformation.

If your dog is often anxious, there are steps you can take to help it overcome fear. Begin by introducing your dog to one person, ideally in your home or yard. Allow your dog to initiate contact and ensure it has a safe retreat where it can go if it begins to feel overwhelmed. Don't force contact, and reward calm behavior and efforts to "meet" the new person. When introducing your dog to another dog, remain calm and speak quietly so that your dog senses your comfort with the situation. Choose a gentle, relaxed dog that will not seem threatening to your dog. Take your dog to quiet outdoor areas and avoid crowds so that it develops comfort with the idea of outings before attempting to visit dog parks or walk along busy streets. Desensitizing a fearful dog is hard work, but it's well worth it. Be attentive and carefully judge how much stimulation your dog can handle at one time, increasing the social challenges at your dog's pace.