How can I calm down a basset hound who is over-anxious around my children. Answers at Dogster Answers.

Sat, Jul 4th 2009, 04:44 GMT

Stop holding him and forcing him to be pet by the kids. That's just asking for someone to be bit. And most dog bites occur because the dog feels threatened or has some kind of anxiety around a situation. Just because he hasn't bit anyone yet, doesn't mean he won't. Hire a trainer or behaviorist and they can teach you how to build up his confidence so he can be social with the kids inside. For whatever reason he's feeling trapped and limited inside and he doesn't feel safe. A trainer/behaviorist will help you find nonthreatening ways to teach your dog confidence. Unless you do this the right way, you may not be able to fix it and could do more damage.

ANSWERED BY Guest 404377

Sat, Jul 4th 2009, 03:43 GMT

Hi there! You don't mention how many children, or what ages they are, but it sounds like your Basset is anxious because he can't get away from their unpredictable behavior. Childrens' movements tend to be much quicker and more random than adults', and they tend to move with more energy, which probably makes him nervous. Read The Other End of the Leash by Patrcia McConnell, Ph.D., and teach your children how to behave to help your Basset calm down. Here are a few tips: * When they enter the room, they should ignore the dog - don't look at him or try to approach him. * Have them use slower movements and calm, low-pitched voices. * If they want to interact with the dog, have them sit on the floor and hold a yummy treat for him. If he approaches, they should not reach over his head to pet him, as this can be seen as a threatening move. * If he growls, they should turn their faces away from him. This tells him they're no danger, and also gives him no attention for an unwanted behavior!

ANSWERED BY

Katie

Sat, Jul 4th 2009, 03:20 GMT

Keep doing what you are doing, counter conditioning. Don't give up. This kind of rehabilitation often takes much time, but it is definitely worth it. Not only for his health, but for other's safety. A frightened dog can become fear-aggressive if he can't escape. When he slips up, go to the last step that worked. You may also sigh up for a training class. I think that the type for this kind of training is called "reaction rover". Good luck.

ANSWERED BY

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