Lincoln is a bit skittish/ jumpy about some things. Example : Loud cars/trucks ,strong wind , reflections on the window etc... He's had tons of socialization. Went to puppy play group, Obedience class , met lots of people and been to many different places. He loves all people and other dogs. Is he in a fear period? If so should I be doing something? Thank you...
Hi Jade, Sorry to hear Lincoln is having a bit of a jumpy phase You could try one of those desensitization cds to see if that helps? I think The Company of Animals has one that is available on Amazon. Let us know how he's getting along!
Hi @Jade I've just had a quick look through the index of Karen Overall's manual and can't see any reference to fear periods. I can remember reading about in one of Joachim Volhard's books but he claims it comes later in the first year. I recall also Jo Laurens making a statement that the second fear period is a matter of debate. But the on-going debate is not going to help you much. Perhaps you could give an adaptil collar diffuser a try. As I have said elsewhere there is no guarantee it will work. But it shouldn't do any harm. I would use the same techniques as you used during the socialisation period. Reward calmness. He will hear a motorbike before you do. But when you read his body language get ready for its approach. If you can move away. Reward any calming signals that you detect as it passes. Essentially you are using the same technique as used in LAT or BAT training. He should become habituated to reflections in windows. Wind? I have noticed nearly all of the dogs become unsettled in obedience class when there are strong winds blowing across the obedience field. Science has studied the impact of wind on adult humans. But caution ought to be exercised in claiming that that research transfers to dogs. Here's something to read on dogs. But there is not much there in terms of science and even less in terms of solutions. https://www.patriciamcconnell.com/theotherendoftheleash/low-pressure-and-dog-behavior
