New environments can be upsetting for dogs; this is especially true if the dog is naturally nervous or has recently come from a shelter. In order to help your dog settle:
1. Identify their triggers
Once you identify the trigger(s), you can start to help them build a positive association with whatever it is that’s making him feel uneasy. For instance, if he doesn’t like the sound of the lawn mower in your backyard, feed him treats or give him a toy every time you hear the lawn mower. Over many repetitions, your dog will learn that whenever he hears the lawn mower, good things happen. Eventually, this process will produce a neutral or positive emotional reaction to the sound of the lawn mower.
2. Make your dog feel safe
Similar to what we mentioned above, we want to teach your dog that you represent safety and good things always happen when he’s with you. For instance, if you’re sitting on the couch and your dog comes over, give him a piece of a favorite treat. Over time your dog will understand that being with you, in your home, is a safe and positive environment.
3. Bond over a training exercise
Practice sit with your dog. This will give you an opportunity to have a shared experience together and build a foundational skill.
4. Create a space your dog feels comfortable in
Consider crate training your dog. We like crates because they offer dogs a safe, personal space all of their own.