Puppies and dogs needs to be trusting, playful and assured. Sadly, many suffer from a syndrome known as “kennel shy” or as some veterinarians now call it, kennelosis. These animals are frequently those present in shelters, pet stores and from ghastly puppy mills. Unfortunately, they acquire peculiar behaviors and irrational fears during their confinement, mainly due to lack of socialization and human interaction.
Behaviors of a kennel shy pet almost mimic those of individuals with autism. The animal may appear fearful, withdrawn, timid and incapable of bonding, powerless to reply. They could seem flat, display a way of aloofness, not act in response to play with people or other animals, lack self-confidence, possess obsessive-compulsive behaviors, continuously hide, and/or be oversensitive to normal noises and activities. Normally they’re in a perpetual state of stress and nervousness, unable to loosen up.
Physical responses could include unmanageable shaking, cowering, behead shy, and little or no bowel or bladder control. They seem in a relentless state of panic.
Some which can be exceptionally fearful could exhibit anti-social behaviors similar to growling snapping and possibly seriously biting in the event that they feel cornered or threatened. This might even occur with those they know.
They might stare “deer-eyed” or refuse to make eye contact.
Look ahead to eccentric behaviors with elimination. They might eliminate only of their crate/kennel or on concrete, because that’s the accept norm to them. They might refuse to walk on grass or carpets, because they’ve rarely if ever been allowed outside their crate or kennel or given the liberty to roam in a house.
They’ll display self-satisfying obsessive-compulsive behaviors including walking in circles, chasing their tail, infinite pacing, chewing on objects or themselves. Chances are you’ll find them obsessing on a single item similar to a toy or blanket. Others find self-gratification by persistently barking or relentlessly whining.
As a rule, the origins of this condition are from excessive confinement in a crate or kennel, harsh punishment for matters out of their control, lack of socialization/human interaction or it is also a learned behavior from a kennel shy mother.
Depending on the severity and length of time the animal has suffered, often determines if there’s a successful turn-around. It times time and patience to assist them construct up their confidence and trust in you. And that is only the start! You may start by getting all the way down to their level. Don’t tower over them. Be patient. Allow them to come back to you. Don’t pursue them. The transition is solely on their level of comfort.
Find something, anything they’ll positively reply to. It might be a toy, a special treat, or a tennis ball. Use it generously as a reward for any upbeat behavior.
Keep activities short. All the time end on a positive note. Leave them wanting more interaction with you.
Praise, praise, praise! Praise every attempt or small step of progress.
Stay calm, keep your tone of voice gentle.
Slowly socialize your pet. Nothing drastic. Keep it short. Keep it positive. Walks and automobile trips are start. Don’t baby or coddle them in the event that they appear nervous. They may generally be watching you, to see the way you react to varied situations. By displaying a non-chalant behavior, you can be teaching them to associate recent experiences with self-confidence.
Don’t rush them! Be thankful for winning each small obstacle. Remember that is harder in your pet than you’ll be able to ever imagine.
Bottom line: A kennel shy animal just isn’t a pleased animal. There isn’t any query they’re a challenge. For those who are willing to simply accept the challenge, be prepared to make a serious commitment of time, energy, patience and love to assist them overcome this aberrant behavior. Take into accout some never do! Raise the bar slowly. Use tons of praise. With trust comes self-confidence. With self-confidence, comes a happier dog!
