Very Scared Puppy

[mcnutty757]

We just got finished with a play date between with 7 month old pug and our friend's dogs, which is a little over a year old and 8 pounds. Bunk has a history of being bad with other dogs, so we decided to get together with someone we trust and her dog in an attempt to get Bunk more comfortable around other dogs. IT WAS A DISASTER!
Bunk was so scared the entire time. Mind you, this other dog is not only small, but very easy going and did not assert itself one bit. Bunk was freaked out from the ver beginning. When our friend's dog (Badger) came in the door, Bunk immediately began barking and growling; he ran up to Badger, barked, and then ran away. Bunk could not get anywhere near Badger without freaking out and eventually hid under the couch, where he spent most of the visit. While under the couch he refused food (which he absolutely never does) and toys.
Just before our friend left I took Bunk from under the couch and held him in my arms and allowed Badger to approach. Bunk went completely limp in a submissive position. After Badger left I noticed Bunk had a little but of urine on him, which tells me that he was so scared that he actually peed on himself.
I know Bunk is still a puppy, and I don't know the first thing about dog socialization, but I am really concerned about him and afraid of this problem persisting.
We are also supposed to pet-sit a friend's 7 year old yellow lab in about three weeks, which is starting to make me nervous considering what happened today.

Any advice or has anyone had a similar experience?

 

[Barb04]

First have lots of patience with him. It's going to be up to him to slowly want to get to know other dogs. I don't have much advice but know patience helps a lot.

 

[AliciaD]

You will get longer, and more helpful responses. I'm studying for an exam (or at least, I'm supposed to).

First, never ask Bunk to go beyond his comfort zone unless necessary. When Bunk refused food under the couch, that meant his fear was so strong even then, that he wasn't ready to be held and approached by Badger.

Second, always make any view/interaction with another dog a positive one. Since it sounds like he's really scared, ask your friend if she can keep Badger on a leash. Start out really far away from Badger, giving Bunk his favorite treats (note: FAVORITE). If he doesn't eat them, he's too far into fight/flight/freeze mode.

Since he's young, it's important that you work on these issues now so that they don't get worse. Consider getting a positive only trainer, someone who is certified or has great references and can explain their methods to you etc.

Blah! Back to school!

 

[lizzybeth727]

I'd highly suggest taking a training class from a good trainer. You can do a trainer search with CPDT. A training class would give you the benefit of coaching from a professional trainer, as well as practice getting your puppy socialized with other dogs.