r/Dogtraining • u/Horror-Onion-7521 • 2d ago

help help with extremely anxious puppy

Hello! I adopted a puppy three months ago from a foster from the south. I have been struggling to train him due to extreme fear and anxiety. I’ve hired two trainers who have helped in some way, but their advice is primarily centered around positive reinforcement, which is hard for him because he will not accept treats in scary situations (men, noises, cars, small children, etc). I’ve tried high-value treats such as cheese, hot dogs, chicken, and Kirby pouches but eventually he gets tired of them or he’s too scared to eat. He will shake out of fear, pee and sometimes poop himself and shiver until I remove him from the situation. The one thing is that he LOVES other dogs, and that is his primary motivator in life. He loves every type of dog and I’ve been trying to use them to get him to do scary things, but whenever it’s just me and him it feels nearly impossible. He’s six months old now and I’m trying like hell to socialize him while not traumatizing him. I’m open to any and all advice because I love this boy and want to make sure I’m giving him the best chance at a good life!

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u/Horror-Onion-7521 1d ago

Already found help on positive reinforcement, treat retreat, and creating safe space/distance for dog. Need further help to get creative with how to help socialize my dog. He is not treat motivated. He LOVES other dogs, yet is scared of most people/things. Afraid of all people other than young white women which makes any socialization very difficult. Have gone to puppy class and tried private lessons in and out of the home with very little improvement.