Hi guys!
I have a 4.5 month old GSD, her name is Baylee. She is timid and shy around people and other dogs. We are in group classes to help with socialization and her and I also go to parks and stores to obtain exposure.
At the park, since she won't let anybody come near us (let me rephrase that, nobody will come near us because they see her bark as aggressive, whereas it really is just unsure), we people watch. When she watches them without barking, I treat and praise. When she watches me without looking at them, I treat and praise. My goal is to get her comfortable with the presence of people, dogs, bikes, strollers, scooters, etc. Then when she is comfortable, begin walking and letting her introduce herself to people and vice versa.
My question is, what is a good process to go by for doing this? How do I get her comfortable with people approaching and becoming receptive of human touch and interaction?
Oh, and puppy classes she is usually shy at first, barks occasionally, and then mellows out. Won't let the dogs come near her, but is calm.
Thank you for your help, this forum is great!
I have a 4.5 month old GSD, her name is Baylee. She is timid and shy around people and other dogs. We are in group classes to help with socialization and her and I also go to parks and stores to obtain exposure.
At the park, since she won't let anybody come near us (let me rephrase that, nobody will come near us because they see her bark as aggressive, whereas it really is just unsure), we people watch. When she watches them without barking, I treat and praise. When she watches me without looking at them, I treat and praise. My goal is to get her comfortable with the presence of people, dogs, bikes, strollers, scooters, etc. Then when she is comfortable, begin walking and letting her introduce herself to people and vice versa.
My question is, what is a good process to go by for doing this? How do I get her comfortable with people approaching and becoming receptive of human touch and interaction?
Oh, and puppy classes she is usually shy at first, barks occasionally, and then mellows out. Won't let the dogs come near her, but is calm.
Thank you for your help, this forum is great!