What should you do when a dog shows fear signals?

What should you do when a dog shows fear signals?

• A. Encourage the dog to come to you as you praise the dog; do not chase.
• B. Chase the dog to force engagement.
• C. Shout commands at the dog.
• D. Put the dog in a crate immediately.

Answer: (A)

When a dog shows fear signals, the priority is to reduce pressure and invite a voluntary, calm approach. Encouraging the dog to come to you as you praise them—without chasing—creates a safe, non-threatening situation. This approach gives the dog control, which lowers arousal and builds trust. A gentle voice, relaxed stance, and soft praise help the dog associate your presence with safety rather than threat. Let the dog come at their own pace, and reward the moment they approach. Chasing the dog increases fear and can trigger a flight or defensive reaction, making engagement less likely and harder to achieve. Shouting commands adds stress and pressure, which usually worsens fear. Forcing a dog into a crate can feel imprisoning and may compound anxiety instead of offering a true safe space.

When a dog shows fear signals, the priority is to reduce pressure and invite a voluntary, calm approach. Encouraging the dog to come to you as you praise them—without chasing—creates a safe, non-threatening situation. This approach gives the dog control, which lowers arousal and builds trust. A gentle voice, relaxed stance, and soft praise help the dog associate your presence with safety rather than threat. Let the dog come at their own pace, and reward the moment they approach.

Chasing the dog increases fear and can trigger a flight or defensive reaction, making engagement less likely and harder to achieve. Shouting commands adds stress and pressure, which usually worsens fear. Forcing a dog into a crate can feel imprisoning and may compound anxiety instead of offering a true safe space.