However, these recommendations will only harm your attempt at adjusting your dog.

Ask a person whose dog has a fear of rain, water, loud noises or thunder, if they used the can or spray bottle method when their pup was young, 8 out of 10 times they will say yes.

FEAR STAGES

 You see puppies go through two essential fear stages during their development, both of which coincide with critical socialization windows. (ucDavis). 

Some breeds actually go through  3-4 four stages and what you want do not want to do-is imprinted fear-that will remain with them throughout their life.

This can happen if they are not kept secure, comfortable and exposed to healthy stress free conditions,  during these all important growth stages. 

 DO NOT FORCE 

Forcing your pup into situations that they are not comfortable with or using the tactics listed above to address unwanted  behavior,  will only do the opposite of what you want to achieve; you will end up with a dog that doesn't properly adapt to its surroundings. 

Fear in a dog comes out in several ways, nervous nellies, barkers, or a host of aggressive behaviors, these can all be results of not keeping a pup confident, secure independent (yes, too much coddling and no time alone can backfire too) . We need to expose them to new situations  and give them the freedom to explore , yet never force. We want them to go at their own pace using their own healthy curiosity.  

At Aunt Lyn’s, we do not suggest methods that  intimidate your puppy with loud noises, water, and taps, but rather to not force your canine into a bad situation.

However, that doesn’t mean shying away a good learning lesson; next time there is thunder, a fire alarm, or a reason  your little pup may  panic, YOU must  remain cool  calm and project a sense of security.

Do not rush to comfort, but rather mentally and outwardly project that there is nothing to be afraid of.  This is what a momma dog dogs and early on your dog speaks predominantly ......yes DOG! lol

So do what a dog would do.

The next time your pup shy's away from a new situation, such as a guest entering your home,  do not force the pup towards the person or allow the person to grab or keep going at or coxing your pup.  Let the pup observe as they do in nature - until he or she feels comfortable to approach. Your pup is observing you and how you react-after all you are the pack leader.

In this way the pup is learning to trust its own observational skills and instincts and also sees that you have the skills to lead. After all, a good leader remains calm, sets the tone, encourages independence and self sufficiency-not dependency. Your puppy  trusting you and seeing you as the leader, is tantamount in nurturing the secure, confident, well trained companion you want and need him or her to be.

As far as correcting bad behaivor such as grabbing a shoe or some other thing not allowed....Teach your dog like a momma dog would. Show disapproval with sound  facial expression and gently but sternly push your pup away.  Also add a human word -- this will begin transitioning your pup to understanding human words and communication, by associating your word with the canine sound- action and  facial behavior you use.

Oh, and did you know  that aromatherapy using essential oils has been shown to also help relax dogs ( Bell 2004 ). It is vital to provide an environment where your dog can remain relaxed, and that’s why Aunt Lyn’s Calming Cologne, in either regular or maximum strength, is a great chose. It not only works, and its portable!  A few spritzes on the collar and you are ready for new adventures or a trip to the groomer or vet. Relaxing a home try a spritz on your dogs bedding or better yet add some Aunt Lyn's Calming Cologne to your differer so the whole family can benefit. Enjoy   the soothing aromatherapy of our proprietary blend which includes among others, Bulgarian lavender and Chamomile . 

Yes, so while you are here check out   Aunt Lyn's Calming Cologne line , it can help tremendously during not just fear stages and training but at other times throughout your dog's life.  Oh, and we think you will benefit too.

GOOD LUCK! We know you can do this!  

Recap Tip: when contemplating training techniques for young pups — always think about if the action is mimicking, even mildly the sound or action of a momma dog — because that's what works. 

Think about it-a pup has not yet learned "ways of people" yet... that will come in time, but instinctively they do  know the dog! 

Citation: Bell, Kristen Leigh. 2004. Holistic Aromatherapy for Animals. Forres, Scotland: Findhorn Press. 
“Critical periods in puppy development.”

About Aunt Lyn's:

Aunt Lyn has been in dog care service for over two decades. In this time, she has trained hundreds of canines of all varieties, with there being hardly a breed that she has not had hands on experience with. This includes helping not only the dog’s physical health, but also their emotional well-being. Her dedication to this cause has led her to create her own line of essential oils for canines. This blog shares much of the useful information that Aunt Lyn has gathered through her years of experience, from her nutritional expertise, to animal safety tips, and innovative B.E.S.T (Behavior, Exercise, Socialization, Training) approach.