ArcaMax

Dear Cathy,

Two months ago, we adopted Fred, a Shar-Pei/Lab mix, through a rescue. He was found severely malnourished and covered in sores. After two months in foster care, we adopted Fred. He has bonded well with our five-year-old dog and is learning to be his own dog. While he’s made significant progress, he still struggles with some behaviors.

First, Fred will only leave the house through the front door but will return through either the front or side door (the one we use most often). With the snow season coming, we would like to get him comfortable going out the side door, but food enticements haven’t worked.

Second, he’s afraid when my husband or I approach him while standing. Whether he’s in his crate or loose in the house, he backs away as we get close.

I know these behaviors are rooted in fear, but I’m unsure how to help him overcome them. Fred is about seven or eight months old now. He’s a wonderful pup, loves to snuggle, and shows joy when we come home. But his fears seem deeply ingrained. Is time enough, or should we be doing more?

— Sharon, Norton, Massachusetts

Dear Sharon,

Poor Fred. Dogs with an abusive past may associate certain objects or experiences with negative memories, triggering fear that manifests in various and often unexpected ways.

I would begin by introducing anxiety clothing, (Thundershirt® or Anxiety Wrap®), a canine pheromone collar, and over-the-counter calming chews to establish a more relaxed state for him to start some desensitization training.

For desensitization, sit near the side door with him, offering quiet praise and gentle petting when he’s relaxed. Keep the door open occasionally to make it feel less intimidating and toss a favorite toy near the door to encourage him to approach at his own pace. If he’s comfortable on a leash, gently guide him toward the door while using a calm voice and treats for reassurance, but don’t force him through it. Instead, let your other dog lead the way, so Fred can (maybe) follow his trusted companion.

Fred’s fear of you and your husband while standing is also likely rooted in a traumatic experience from his past. To ease his anxiety, try approaching him at an angle rather than directly, as this feels less intimidating. Toss treats as you approach, encouraging him to associate your movements with something positive. Reward him with generous praise anytime he voluntarily comes to you in order to build his trust and confidence in you.

The fact that Fred snuggles with you and greets you joyfully when you return home is an excellent sign of his progress. He’s learning that you are safe and loving despite his fears being deeply rooted. Celebrate the small victories, whether it’s a calm moment near the side door or him feeling less anxious as you approach.

This will take time, but the desensitization sessions will add up, helping Fred build the confidence he needs to eventually step through that side door.

Dear Cathy,

Our 12-year-old Border Collie/Australian cattle dog mix refuses to come down seven steps to arrive on the main floor. While attempting it multiple times, she eventually succeeds. The problem doesn’t appear to be physical. What can we do?

— Robert, Plainview, New York

Dear Robert,

Since this is a new behavior, it’s worth considering whether it could be linked to a change in her vision, joint pain, or another subtle health issue common in older dogs. Even if it doesn’t seem physical, a quick check-up with your veterinarian should be the first step to rule out any underlying problems.

If the behavior is anxiety-related, then introducing over-the-counter calming chews, a canine pheromone collar, or anxiety clothing may help set the stage for success.

Next, check the environment. Dogs can develop anxieties about stairs due to perception changes or a previous slip or scare. Are the stairs well-lit? Shadows or poor lighting can be intimidating for older dogs. Has she ever slipped on the stairs? Adding non-slip stair treads or a carpet runner can improve traction and make the stairs feel safer.

Finally, retraining her with positive reinforcement can also help. Start by rewarding and praising small successes, such as sitting calmly at the top or bottom of the stairs. Then practice one or two steps at a time, using treats or gentle encouragement.

If she’s especially nervous, consider using a harness with a handle for guidance or even a temporary ramp to rebuild her confidence. Avoid forcing her, as it can increase her anxiety. Overall, confidence-building activities may greatly help improve her willingness to use the stairs.

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(Cathy M. Rosenthal is a longtime animal advocate, author, columnist and pet expert who has more than 25 years in the animal welfare field. Send your pet questions, stories and tips to cathy@petpundit.com. Please include your name, city, and state. You can follow her @cathymrosenthal.)

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