Some Shih Tzus are afraid of everything, while others only show fear in certain situations. In some cases, these fears can turn into phobias, and in others, they may develop into syndromes.
In this article, we’ll share some signs to help you identify if your Shih Tzu is scared and provide some tips to try to resolve this issue.
Normal Fear vs. Excessive Fear in Shih Tzus
Some little dogs have a natural predisposition to be timid or fearful in the face of unfamiliar or threatening situations. This is a survival instinct and doesn’t necessarily have an external cause; it’s just part of their character.
However, it’s different when Shih Tzus display disproportionate fear. In such cases, it might be a phobia with external causes, which can be challenging behavior problems to solve. That’s why it’s crucial to prevent your furry friend’s fear from turning into a phobia.
Fear is a problem that should be addressed so your dog can lead a normal life. Seeking professional help can undoubtedly contribute to solving this problem.
6 Things That Make Shih Tzus Afraid!
A Shih Tzu can feel varying levels of fear in several situations. The primary causes of their fear typically include:
1. Some people.
2. Other dogs.
3. Various types of noises: storms, fireworks, appliances, etc.
4. Water.
5. The garbage truck.
6. The veterinarian.
How to Tell If Your Shih Tzu Is Scared
But how can you tell if a dog is experiencing disproportionate fear? Look out for these signs:
– They try to escape the frightening situation. Be careful with this because the animal might get lost or have an accident.
– They lie down on the ground.
– They urinate or defecate involuntarily.
– They seek a place to hide.
– They tremble.
– Their pupils dilate, their ears go back, and they tuck their tail between their legs.
– Sometimes, they bark or growl at an object or a person that triggers their fear.
– They may even become aggressive, especially if you prevent them from fleeing a terrifying situation.
As you can see, the goal is to help the Shih Tzu learn to interact naturally with everyone around them. Additionally, using positive reinforcement by rewarding their good behavior is a tool that can be employed in these cases.