The Walking Club

How do I help a shy dog I adopted from a shelter?

Go slowly, let them settle, and keep walks short at first. Ask for help if the fear is strong.
2 min read·Field notes

Short answer: give your dog time and space, and keep the first days quiet and simple.

What Dogs Trust says

Dogs Trust says a rescue dog may feel anxious when they first arrive. Create a space that offers choices and feels safe, and let them settle in at their own pace. It says to keep walks short in the first few days.

What AVSAB says

AVSAB reports a study of fearful shelter dogs which found that dogs who started structured treatment sooner showed faster reductions in fear than dogs who were given time to settle in first. That study is about shelters, so ask a professional what suits your own dog.

What to do

See a rescue dog's first week and fear of strangers on walks.

Get the right help

If your dog is very frightened, hides or growls, call your vet and ask for a qualified behavior professional.

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Sources

RelatedMy new rescue dog hides. Should I coax them out?
A guide for this

The first weeks with an adopted dog

This guide is about settling in and routine. It does not cover medical care.

The Rescue's First 90 Days coverThe Rescue's First 90 DaysA paced plan for the first weeks · $9.99Read the guide →This guide is part ofThe Welcome Home PackFive guides for a new start with a dog.

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