Living With and Training a Fearful Dog

Fear is a common problem that can be seen in the timid wallflower as well as the barking, lunging dog on the street. Professional dog trainers, shelter workers, foster care givers, veterinary staff and dog owners will not want to miss this opportunity to learn about the most effective and humane ways to help our neediest best friends learn to trust what they currently fear. Topics: * Why dogs are afraid * What fear/stress looks like in dogs * How to interact with feral or unsocialized dogs * How to work with fear based behaviors * The use of play in the rehabilitation of fearful dogs * Understanding the effects of reinforcement & punishment on fearful dogs * What is learned helplessness? * Myth of reinforcing fear in dogs * Equipment * Medication * Other Resources * Owner conceptions of fear based behaviors * Managing environments for fearful dogs * Skill building exercises for fearful dogs; food delivery, treat/retreat, targeting, LAT, BAT, handling games. These include hands-on experience with dogs, if the canine attendees are able to participate.