I had a friend with this problem and I helped her with it and it ACTUALLY worked. So one thing with animals to remember is consistency. If he's afraid of other dogs, having random play dates won't help, they need to be consistent and scheduled regular visits until the comfort zone is established. So I would recommend, that if you have a friend with a calm/nice/friendly/not aggressive dog, find a time 2-3 times a week (every other day or something). Where she brings him/her over to your house (your dogs turf). Both of you would hold them upon them coming to your house. Hold your dog tell him it's ok and praise him. Let them sniff each other out for about 10 min. Then just put them down and watch. I wouldn't be too nervous either and sometimes its best if you don't watch too much because the dog can feel your tension and apprehension in any given situation which might be making him worried. Let them play for an hour, then have your friend go home. Then give him a day break, then have her come over again the next day, same time same routine, and so on. Then after a couple of weeks of this, you go to her house a few times. This is what she did and it worked. Sounds like a lot of work but all he really needs is reassurance that all is ok. In order to do that you need to be consistent with playdates etc. so that he sees it is ok. Some dogs by nature are just very submissive and scared but even the most submissive dog will play with other nonthreatening dogs. Try this and see if it works for you. |