Why does my dog bark and hide from strangers on walks and at home?

Consider a pheromone product, such as the Adaptil collar, to help decrease any anxiety. Next, expose her to a "new" person forever increasing periods of time. Praise and reward her as she progresses. It will take time and consistency, so keep at it but don't force her to move on if she gets too worked up.

Introduce her, gradually, to one dog then another and another. Do this in a neutral area, such as a dog park or field. Correct negative behavior/responses immediately and praise/reward good behavior. Use a pheromone product, such as the Adaptil collar, to help decrease any anxiety.Given her age, get her enrolled in an obedience class and puppy socialization classes.

It could be a combination of being fearful/anxious and a bit possessive/protective. Try not to overwhelm her with too many people at once. Gradually acclimate her to one person at a time by exposing her for ever increasing periods of time. Correct any negative response immediately and praise good behavior consistently. Add in a new person as she accepts the previous one. Be patient. This will take time. A pheromone product, such as the Adaptil collar or DAP plug in diffuser, may decrease any anxiety she may have.

1) He may be apprehensive or suspicious at first but eventually accepts the person as a non-threat. Try to expose him to different people and places. Do this gradually so as to not overwhelm him. A pheromone product, such as the Adaptil collar, may decrease any anxiety. Remove him from any negative stimuli or stressful situations before he escalates. Praise good behavior consistently. 2) Whining is the way he lets you know he is unsure or fearful of something or he wants it. It may precede the bark. 3) It may be a preference or he may have a bit of anxiety when you're gone. 4) Not unless you have an issue with it or if he does it at inappropriate times. He is showing you affection. Enjoy!

Gradually introduce her to one person at a time. Do this in a neutral location such as a park. Begin with a short intro from a distance and gradually increase the time while closing the distance. Correct any negative behavior immediately and praise good behavior. End each session with a small reward. As she acclimates to one person, add another then another. Take her to as many public places as possible as well. This will acclimate her further to people and crowds. The use of a pheromone product, such as the Adaptil collar, may help decrease any anxiety. This will take time and patience. Do not rush or force her to meet people, especially if she is trying to run away. Give her a break when this happens and try again once she settles down.

I forgot to mention the use of a pheromone product such as the Adaptil collar or DAP plug in diffuser. These may decrease anxiety or aggression. You can also consider a consultation with another Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach expert, Dr. Jennifer Summerfield. In addition to being an experienced trainer, she is a member of the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB).

Continue with gradual introductions. Correct any negative behavior immediately and praise /reward good behavior. Be consistent. You can also try a pheromone product, such as the Adaptil collar or DAP plug in diffuser, to decrease any anxiety.