Does anyone know of a sensitive dog trainer who can help me with a rescued dog that is afraid of people?
Hi DMorris,
I can wholeheartedly recommend my husband Michael Ossenbeck for respectful, sensitive dog training. He's worked with shelter and rescue dogs quite a lot over the years.
He says there are a number of ways to help build the dog's confidence including basic training, agility, and nosework.
Exercise will help with good brain chemistry.
A few suggestions: Do not pressure the dog to interact with people. Rather, let it progress at its own pace.
It would help you to learn how a dog communicates through body language so you can better understand its emotional state.
As you see more confidence you can gradually add more challenges to the training.
Michael recommends the book Help for your Fearful Dog by Nicole Wilde, found in the Sonoma County Library.
His contact information is (707) 396-8055 and
[email protected]
Good luck,
Claire