Helping a puppy overcome fears is crucial to its growth and well-being.
The first thing is early socialization so make sure the puppy is exposed (safely and gradually, after completing the vaccination cycle) to a variety of sounds, places, people and other dogs. Each new experience should be associated with something positive, such as tasty treats, praise, or play. Never force your puppy to face what frightens him. Let him decide when to approach allow him as much time as necessary.
When your puppy is afraid and shaking, cuddling or whispering “poor thing” or picking him up can unintentionally REINFORCE his fear, making him think there really is something to worry about. Instead, be calm and neutral, and direct him to an activity he knows and loves (such as a game or a command).
In the home, create a safe place for him: create a place (a carrier, kennel or quiet corner) where your puppy can retreat and feel completely safe. This place should never be used for “go to kennel” punishments when he has done something wrong or when he has unnerved you is not the right strategy!
To desensitize him from specific fears such as such as loud sounds like thunder or gunshots, vacuum cleaners, or people with hats try gradually exposing him to the stimulus that frightens him at such a low level that it does not provoke a fearful reaction. If, for example, he is afraid of loud sounds you can use low volume recordings and play them for him at a low volume while he is playing happily or eating then gradually, over days or weeks, increase the volume slightly until he doesn’t even notice the sound is present
You can also use the counter-conditioning technique: for example, if the puppy is afraid of someone in a hat when he comes in and is still standing at a distance, start giving the puppy something very appetizing to him and stop giving it to him when the person disappears. The puppy learns that “when the scary stimulus appears, great things happen.”
When the puppy is overtly frightened move him away from the frightening stimulus (but don’t pick him up!) until he calms down a bit and shows signs of relaxation, show by your calm and relaxed behavior that there is no need to be afraid, they learn a lot by emulation and you are his example.
If the fear is very intense and paralyzing, or if it is causing behavioral problems (such as fear aggression), it is essential to consult a professional trainer or veterinary behaviorist. They can provide an individualized behavior modification plan.
Westies i generally are swaggering and brave dogs (sometimes too much so) however, it is always good to educate and direct their behaviors from puppyhood.
