Q: How can I determine what scares my 13-week-old puppy when I walk towards him? I’ve never hurt him in any way or even scolded him.
A: It’s unusual for a 13-week-old puppy to be showing fear when approached, especially if there appears to be no apparent reason. Without having more information, such as if your pup has shown fear since you brought him home, if this is something new, and about the pup’s history and breeding circumstances, it is difficult to provide an answer.
On average, the period between four and 16 weeks in a puppy’s development is the time when he is far more open and accepting of new experiences, people and other animals, and usually don’t show signs of fear, which is why adequate socialisation during this period is so important.
A puppy school with suitably qualified trainers will be able to assist with this.
The more positive or neutral experiences puppies have with different people, other dogs and environments during this critical time, the easier it will be for them to accept these things and become confident, secure adult dogs.
It is possible that there can be a genetic component in some dogs that may cause nervousness or fear from birth. I would suggest that you contact a qualified behaviourist who can look into this and provide further advice.
Alyson Kingsley-Hall, behaviourist
