I just joined a clicker training class with Natalie. Monday was the first class and Natalie was so nervous during class that I had to sit out with her twice. She wouldn't even eat treats at first, which is highly unusal for her. I have never seen her so nervous in my life and I'm not sure how to make her feel more comfortable. She was almost as nervous during the pre-class evaluation even with just me, her and the trainer. I remained neutral as to not encourage her anxiousness. I think she is just overwhelmed with all the unfamiliar smells. Next class is Monday, any suggestions or ideas on how I might prepare her for class so that she is not so nervous? Do you think she might adjust after a few classes?
A little backround on Natalie -
She is a 5yr old australian shepherd/redbone coonhound x and this is the first training class she has ever been to. I've had her since she was about 7wks old. She has been well socialized and is very friendly and comfortable with other dogs and people....never appears to be nervous around them like she was in class. She's been to a doggy social group and appeared to be totally fine with the dogs and people there, although it was outdoors. She goes to the park, for car rides and to stores with me frequently and shows no signs of anxiety.
A little backround on Natalie -
She is a 5yr old australian shepherd/redbone coonhound x and this is the first training class she has ever been to. I've had her since she was about 7wks old. She has been well socialized and is very friendly and comfortable with other dogs and people....never appears to be nervous around them like she was in class. She's been to a doggy social group and appeared to be totally fine with the dogs and people there, although it was outdoors. She goes to the park, for car rides and to stores with me frequently and shows no signs of anxiety.