Scared of kids

[D_N_F]

Hi. I wrote the other day about my five month old male who is terried of children. The new thing now (no more growling, we nipped that in the bud) is that he will stare at an aproaching child wagging his tail, but as soon as they get close or try to pet him, he either runs or tries to hide behind me shaking like a leaf. What should I do in these situations? I thought the more nice kids he met, the better he'd be, but still, he freaks. He will let the occasional child pet him, but is still very wary. Maybe he just needs to get older and gain more confidence?

[ghstmoon]

Hi There

I know what youre going through. Salem has done the same thing since he was that age. He is now 8 1/2 months old and still doing it. We try to get him around kids but as soon as they put their hand out, he flips out. I have no idea where this came from. I cant find a way to fix it either.

Sorry I couldnt be of any help but if you figure it out I'd love to hear.

Nicole and Salem

[eastwooddanes]

A timid dog is just as dangerous as an agressive one, These dogs need to get some training and more socialization. If they feel threatened and affraid of children, I think if you dont get it figured out eventually some one is going to get bit. I once had a dane that was the same way, We never let kids run, jump & scream around him. Instead they were made to sit quietly in a chair and allow the dog to approach them to smell them & not reach out to the dog until I knew it was OK, Eventually this dogs fears of the small people subsided. But the situation is not to be taken lightly. Get help.
Kim E.
Visit us at:
www.eastwooddanes.com

[Shelley]

JMO, but I would only attempt to desensitize the dog under the guidance of a professional animal behaviourist. Sounds silly? I can't help but be VERY unconfortable with the idea of using children in reprogramming a dog's defence drive. What happens if we think the dog is coping well and go one step beyond the threshold of reaction? Injured child = dead dog + lawsuit + a lotta heartbreak. I would hope that the employ of a professional trainer would offer some protection for all involved. A young dog will try to flee, a more mature dog will defend when cornered.

At least you have his youth on your side which should make it easier. In the meantime, I wouldn't allow any uncontrolled interaction with children - one stray pinch and you may never get him over this.

Good luck and please do keep us updated on his progress.

[D_N_F]

We're making progress! I have been carrying treats whenever I think we might encounter kids, he's getting much better. Today we walked at the local playground and a few kids came over. I made them give him a treat first, then it was almost as if he was looking for the kids! I think I may be on the right track. One kid even hugged him (I would have said no, but it happened too fast)and he was fine. The next kid I let pet him without a treat, he was much better! In our confirmation class, there is a pretty young junior handler who he has always been fine with. We'll see how things go I guess. Thanks!:)