Update on scaredy dog (cala)

[claire1976]

Well we took Keela to the land rover show yesterday and she did pretty good. I gave her 3 serene-um tablets before we travelled to help calm her down and popped a couple of drops of lavender in her crate.
When we got there she was a bit nervy but there were no large crowds initially so she had time to look around and adjust.
I kept her on a short but relaxed lead and everytime she looked in the direction of someone I rewarded her with a treat, eventually she was even sniffing some people (when they weren't looking!) so I rewarded that.
During the course of the day she didn't progress much from that, she occasionally took a treat from some people but others she wouldn't even approach so I didn't force the issue.
I think she did pretty well but I'm not sure we'll ever get any further than that. I'd love to take her to more places and allow people to fuss her and for her to enjoy it but it's unlikely. It's a shame as she is a stunning dog and so many people commented on how beautiful she is.

 

[Booboos]

I haven't read your original post, but sounds like you are doing all the right things with her and she is responding really well! It might seem like a small step, but that is actually quite a lot of progress for a fearful dog and if you can repeat a pleasant, stress free experience little and often she will progress.

 

[camilla4]

Hi Cala - I agree with Booboos. Don't underestimate what a big step this is - really! You won't change her overnight and any progress is good. Just keep doing what you are doing and be patient. Our Labrador came to us as a rescue case in a terrible state. She was terrified of everyone and if anyone so much as made a move towards her she would hide behind my legs and shake. Now she is like any other Lab - anyone she meets is her new best friend. Just keep developing her confidence in you and she'll get there...