Why is my golden retriever so scared of new people and how to help?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

  Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

  Published on May 22nd, 2018

  Poor Bailey! It sounds like she's quite fearful of strangers and doesn't enjoy having them pet her. This is something you can definitely work on, but since she's older and her fear is already firmly entrenched, this will be more complicated than simply "socializing" her around people. I would recommend getting in touch with a veterinary behaviorist or a good reward-based trainer who can evaluate her in person and help you put together a training plan.
  
  In general, treatment for fear issues like this involves teaching the dog to associate treats and other fun things with seeing people. She should never be forced to interact with strangers if she isn't comfortable, so I would stop taking her into stores and other places where people are likely to approach and try to pet her.
  
  Instead, you can try standing at a distance from people (perhaps at the park, or the parking lot of a grocery store, or somewhere else with a steady stream of people passing by) where she is comfortable. Praise and reward her with a treat every time she sees someone. Gradually, over time, you can move closer as long as she's happy and relaxed.
  
  You can search for a veterinary behaviorist in your area here: www.dacvb.org , or a qualified trainer here: www.ccpdt.org

  

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