I recently had a client who had rescued a very traumatized dog from a shelter. The dog had a horrible history being abused and dumped and abandoned.

When I first met the client and the dog, I started a conversation with the client. We talked about the history of the dog and understood the training goals for the client.

The client was hoping the dog would be more engaging. They didn’t want the dog to be so afraid of everything. They wanted it to be more responsive in a playful way with treats and interaction with the family.

The dog was totally traumatized by its past history. Even though the client had the dog for over 8 months in the home, it remained very shy and fearful. It was non-responsive to treats and commands. The dog just wanted to lay in its dog bed with a blank stare.

The clients state the dog is much more normal when left alone. It walks throughout the house. It loves to engage with the dogs and cats in a positive way.

Yet, when the dog eats and is being watched it shuts down and will not eat. The dog will not come when called, even with treats. It will not get on the couch, which the owner would like to cuddle. The dog will not enter the client’s bedroom but runs away to the bathroom, where the dog bed is.

Patience and Positive Approach Required

Training a traumatized dog requires an extremely patient and positive approach. Focus on building trust and confidence through gradual exposure to triggers. Use positive reinforcement techniques like clicker training. Prioritize the dog’s comfort level by going at their pace. Provide safe spaces when needed.

My Best Advice to A Client with a Traumatized Dog

After meeting with the client for an hour, we discussed the dog’s behavior. We even tried different commands and engaged with the dog. However, nothing really worked. The dog was just really unresponsive.

I am not an Animal Behaviorist, and I have limited experience with traumatized dogs in this manner. The client seemed to be hoping for more. I stressed to the client to accept the dog’s behavior for now. They should show unlimited love and patience. This approach improves the bond, trust, and confidence.

As a trainer, I want my clients to know there is no quick fix. It takes time, love, and patience. Understand that the dog may never be normal the way the client wants.