Thankfully, we can help our dogs using a behavior modification technique called counter conditioning. These behaviors are subtle and easy to miss, but make no mistake, they are telltale signs of anxiety and fear in your furry friend.Ĭontrary to popular belief, dogs usually bite due to fear as opposed to aggression or a desire for dominance. He may display behaviors that seem out of context, such as yawning when he should be alert, or licking his lips when there is no food present. While out in the neighborhood, he may tense up suddenly, tuck his tail between his legs, or avoid looking at masked faces. If your dog has started putting on the brakes when it’s time for his walk, or choosing to leave the room when you pick up the leash, he may be trying to tell you he’s having a hard time seeing humans in masks. Need some help navigating post-lockdown life with your pooch? Check out our hub for helpful tips and advice.Dan Mullen Out as Florida Gators Head Coach After 4 Seasons The easing of restrictions means that face masks aren’t the only thing that will be changing, and your dog may need some support as we start to move away from the normal they have become used to.
Now that face masks are a more usual part of our everyday lives, you need to teach your dog that they are nothing to worry about. But it could be confusing for them to see faces covered because they are really good at reading our facial expressions to tell how we’re feeling. Not all dogs will be afraid of face masks, some may not be bothered at all. This is when they learn about ‘normal life’ and work out what to make of all the new people and things they experience. Masks have become part of our everyday life and are going to be around for some time yet, so they’ll need to get used to those too. Introducing puppies to people wearing face masksĪll puppies need to be introduced to new objects, sights and sounds in the first four months of life. Keeping your dog on lead or behind a child gate gives both dog and child their own space in which to practice safely. When getting your dog used to children wearing masks, an adult must always actively supervise and be responsible for rewarding the dog. Introducing dogs to children wearing face masks Take your mask out with you on walks and give your dog a treat every time you see anyone else wearing one. Repeat any steps necessary so your dog is always relaxed. Now you’re ready to try outside in your garden or the street. Step six: Once your dog is comfortable with you wearing a face mask, start again from the beginning with others in the home so your dog feels comfortable no matter who has their face covered. They’ll learn that seeing people walking and talking in face masks isn’t anything to be concerned about. Let your dog see you trying it on, then talk to them and move around as before while scattering treats or feeding them by hand. Step five: Introduce the face mask itself. Step four: As long as your dog appears relaxed, start to move around the room while your face is covered, talking to your dog and giving them treats as you go. Step three: Use a scarf or bandana and cover your mouth and nose for a little longer and reward your dog, so they learn that this isn’t anything to worry about. Repeat several times so they’re comfortable listening to you talking with your face covered and then getting their treat. For dogs seeing our faces move is very important, so this might take a little time to get used to. Step two: Next, keep talking as you cover your mouth and nose to get your dog used to hearing you speak without seeing your mouth moving. Repeat this several times so they get used to your face being slightly obscured and learn this means a treat is coming their way. Step one: Simply hold your hand over your mouth and nose for a moment then give your dog a treat. Something to cover your face, like a scarf or bandanaįollow these steps and over time, with plenty rewards, they’ll soon be taking people in face masks in their stride.
Start at home, where your dog is comfortable, take it slowly and make sure they stay relaxed. Introducing face masks to your dog will mean they are prepared for when you are out and about, surrounded by people wearing them . Face masks have become a part of everyday life, so it’s a good idea to get your pooch used to people wearing them as soon as you can.
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