Confidence is a valuable trait in both humans and dogs. Just as in people, a confident dog is more likely to be relaxed and capable of handling new and challenging situations. If you live with a shy or nervous dog, here are three of my favourite confidence boosting exercises: "Middle," "2 Paws Up," and the "Noise Box."
A WORD OF CAUTION. Confidence is an area where the journey is definitely more important than the destination. These exercises involve using food to lure your dog. How you teach these exercises could be the difference between building and losing confidence. You must be extremely careful that you are not luring your dog out of their comfort zone. Look for signs of hesitancy including sticky legs, snatching at treats, shifting their weight away from you. We want our dogs to have confidence in themselves AND trust in us. For example, if your dog is hesitant to go under your legs in middle then don’t try to lure them through. Just repeat step 2 until they are confident at this stage then build up step 3 in small incremental steps. If in doubt, stop.
Middle:
"Middle" is a simple yet effective way to boost your dog's confidence. It helps them learn to trust you as a safe space, offering them a sense of security in potentially intimidating situations. This exercise not only fosters confidence but also improves your dog's focus and is a great recall cue! Here's how to do it:
Step 1: Start with your dog in front you. Hold a treat in each hand.
Step 2: With your right hand, use the treat like a magnet next to your dog’s nose to lure your dog around your right leg and behind you. Let them eat this treat.
Step 3: While they are eating the treat, reach through your own legs with your left hand and place this treat next to your dog’s nose. Use your left hand/treat to lure your dog through your legs.
Step 4: Feed generously whilst in the middle position. Stand still and through a treat in front of you for your dog to chase. This lets your dog leave the middle position without you moving. For some dogs, your movement whilst above them can be scary.
2 Paws Up:
"2 Paws Up" is a fun way to build your dog's confidence and balance. This exercise encourages your dog to conquer new physical challenges and helps them become more confident in their abilities. Here's how to teach your dog this trick:
Step 1: Start with your dog standing in front of you. Place a low stable object, like a folded towel, between you and your dog.
Step 2: Hold a treat just in front of your dog’s nose and lure them towards you.
Step 3: As soon as your dog places one paw on the towel, reward generously.
Step 4: Gradually your dog will start to place two paws on the towel, again reward generously. Throw a treat away to reset.
Step 5: Once they are confident at this, you can start to use different objects like small stools and cushions and incorporate this trick out on your walks too.
Noise Box: The "Noise Box" exercise is designed to help dogs become more comfortable with unfamiliar or loud sounds. Many dogs are sensitive to noise, and this exercise can be particularly beneficial for them. It can help your dog become more confident when faced with unexpected or loud sounds in their environment. Here’s how to do it: Step 1: Start with an empty cardboard box or container on a non-slip surface (carpet rather than wood for example). We don’t want the box to move on the floor and scare your dog. Step 2: Allow your dog to explore the box with no pressure. Initially, they may be cautious and hesitant. Place some treats around the box for them to eat. Step 3: When they are comfortable eating around the box, place a few treats in the box too. Step 4: When they are comfortable eating out of the box, you can gradually start to add a variety of items such as crinkly paper, plastic bottles or toilet roll tubes. Add these items slowly, start with just one item, then two and build it up from there. Place some treats in the box with the items.
Incorporating these confidence-building exercises into your dog's routine can lead to a happier, more self-assured dog. Remember to be patient and always adapt the exercises to your dog's individual needs and comfort level. With time and practice, you'll notice your dog growing in confidence and becoming more capable in various situations.
If you need 1 to 1 help with a fearful dog, please contact me to discuss individual options.
If you have a nervous foreign rescue dog, take a look at the ‘Fearful Dog Package’ in the Foreign Rescue page.