Back to Pete's Q&A
How can I help my dog be less afraid of strangers?
Q
My two year old Boxer never wags her tail, is frightened of strangers, and runs away if I go towards her. She is fine once she is on a lead. How can I help her to be less frightened?
A
It sounds as if this Boxer was poorly socialised as a puppy: this often leaves adult dogs with a fearful, anxious personality that they never fully recover from. The best you can do is to give her plenty of rewarding, positive experiences, and in time, she should gradually become more relaxed and confident.
If you are worried about your pet's health, visit the Petfix DIY Triage Checker or talk to your vet as soon as possible.