What can i do to help my puppy not be scared

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A few days ago a repairman came in to work and I put the gate up to separate him because he's huge and likes to jump on people. Since then he's been sniffing and scared looking up at the ceiling backing up in fear, cowering, and some barking. I have since vacuumed and mopped and he acted alright after that for a lil bit but then the same behaviors returned. The vet said that if it didn't go away it could be neurological and he'd need a $500 cat scan. I just don't know what to do any information would be appreciated

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Based on 16 votes (8 yes)
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Comments ( 3 )
  • Ellenna
    8 years ago

    I hope you're not offended but I had to laugh at your first sentence because it reads as if a huge repairman jumps on people!

    Seriously though, has he (the dog I mean) always been so nervous? Personally I wouldn't be thinking about paying $500 for anything after only a few days of this behaviour, and if it began immediately after the repairman's visit I don't see how it could be neurological.

    I have known people with very nervous dogs to have mild tranquillisers prescribed for a short time (again, for the dog, not the owners) and I'd reckon that'd be a preferable option.

    Good luck with the situation: wouldn't it all be much easier if our animal friends could tell us what's wrong?

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  • Maggiflame
    8 years ago

    He's a very healthy happy nine month old his mom is Labrador/blue heeler and his dad is American bull dog/pit bull he's never had any anxiety problems or behavior problems I've had him since he was five weeks old. I think your right on that it's not neurological but behavioral and I do wish dogs could talk so he can tell me what happened to freak him out because he is in just certain areas in my home. He's seems better at times but then will revert back to being fearful of whatever it is he's smelling or seeing/possibly remembering? I wish I knew because it makes me very sad. Thank You both for your advice.

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  • Englishman_Abroad
    8 years ago

    Sounds behavioural than neuro BUT I have not got your dogs medical history in front of me and have not examined him either so do not assume my advice is based on a correct diagnosis. Your vet is the only one who can make that call, though it is ok to ask them why they think a CAT scan is necessary (ie: does your dog have any other neuro symptoms other than behaviouralchange?).
    Ok so assuming your dog is displaying nervous behaviours, some basic tips to avoid making it worse. You may already know this but anyway...
    - Don't punish the behaviour (includes shouting as this usually increases anxiety
    - Don't reward the behaviour in any way (hugs/treats etc). Dogs learn by association and these reward actions often reinforced unwanted behaviours.
    - Either ignore him when he is doing it or try to distract him by engaging in some training (using rewards only if he obeys commands).
    - Anxiety releiving medications are available from vets. Some are prescrption and some are more if the herbal/supplement variety. Pheramone collars can be useful for relieving anxiety. DO NOT USE ANTI-BARK COLLARS (shock or spray). They interrupt the behaviour but often make anxiety worse or lead to new phobias when the dogs make incirrect assocuations.

    Hope this helps. Bottom line is if it's getting worse then don't delay seeking treatment from a vet (they can refer you on to a qualified behaviourist if necessary).
    Good luck!

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