Hey folks. Is it common for GSDs to go through a fear stage in their adolescence?
I have a 7mo old female. Up until this past Sunday evening, she's been progressing fantastically in training and socialization. This dog has been confident and obedient. We've taken her all kinds of places and she's just been an angel everywhere we've went.
I live in a town home community. This past Sunday evening, we were standing outside taking a bathroom break (her not me - haha). All of a sudden, a fire truck and rescue pulled up with their emergency lights on and sirens blaring. This scared the crap out of Cassie.
Ever since, she's been a little bit of a basket case. She's acting scared at all sorts of noises. Even some that she was accustomed to. I noticed a strong reaction yesterday afternoon to a brightly colored van. (One of the reasons I'm thinking the fire truck and rescue were the catalyst)
When she goes outside, there's no sniffing around and not much playing anymore. She goes to her potty spot, takes care of business and then immediately begs to get back in the house.
So I'm looking for advice. Has this ruined my dog? How can I get her confidence back up? I've been trying to linger outside a bit when we go out to force the issue. I've added a couple of outdoor play sessions.
Again, is a secondary fear stage at this age typical?
I appreciate any help or guidance.
Tom
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I have a 7mo old female. Up until this past Sunday evening, she's been progressing fantastically in training and socialization. This dog has been confident and obedient. We've taken her all kinds of places and she's just been an angel everywhere we've went.
I live in a town home community. This past Sunday evening, we were standing outside taking a bathroom break (her not me - haha). All of a sudden, a fire truck and rescue pulled up with their emergency lights on and sirens blaring. This scared the crap out of Cassie.
Ever since, she's been a little bit of a basket case. She's acting scared at all sorts of noises. Even some that she was accustomed to. I noticed a strong reaction yesterday afternoon to a brightly colored van. (One of the reasons I'm thinking the fire truck and rescue were the catalyst)
When she goes outside, there's no sniffing around and not much playing anymore. She goes to her potty spot, takes care of business and then immediately begs to get back in the house.
So I'm looking for advice. Has this ruined my dog? How can I get her confidence back up? I've been trying to linger outside a bit when we go out to force the issue. I've added a couple of outdoor play sessions.
Again, is a secondary fear stage at this age typical?
I appreciate any help or guidance.
Tom
Sent from my iPad Pro using Tapatalk