Fearfulness can be an outgrowth of shyness. A shy and fearful dog is one who panics quickly because of loud noises, the approach of strangers, a car ride, or just going out for a walk. He may hide, freeze, urinate, defecate, whine, or run barking to a safe place. The usual outward appearance of a shy and fearful dog is one who rolls over submissively, lays his ears back, or folds his tail between his legs.
Shyness in itself is not a problem. It is when the shyness, representing certain fears the dog may have, results in growling, snapping or biting as defense behavior. A shy dog growling, snapping or biting as defense behavior. A shy dog is one that has not been properly socialized during the critical period before weaning. He may be a dog who was always kept in a kennel away from human contact or a dog who has been with a quiet, single, sedentary person. The shy dog usually becomes overdependent on his caregiver, and many times that person inadvertently reinforces shy behavior by trying to coax or calm him. This is not to say that a shy dog does not make a good pet. He may be an ideal companion for someone who lives alone and rather quietly. This is also not to say that a shy dog cannot be rehabilitated. It will take some time,Obedience training, and patience!
If your dog is growling, showing his teeth, or displaying any sign of fear, instantly reprimand his behavior with a verbal "NO." When the behavior ceases, praise him. If he has already started biting as a way of allaying his fear, you may have to muzzle or confine him whenever he is in a fearful situation. If he is biting, immediately seek the assistance of an expert animal behaviorist or consider euthanasia. This is a very dangerous situation!
There are several things you can do to help your dog overcome his shyness. First, check with your veterinarian to see if there is any organic cause to this behavior. A diet that reduces stress may help. It is very important that you do not give him attention for rolling over and urinating, whining, barking, or running off and hiding when visitors come to the door or when strangers approach. Keep in mind that this shyness is a manifestation of fear. Ignore these behaviors and praise him at the times when he is showing courage and confidence. If he is acting fearfully around certain situations or strangers, you act happily, laugh, and talk as if it is not all that serious. Dogs mimic so he will pick up on your ease during his anxious moments. Let him approach a stranger rather than vice versa. The stranger or person whom he fears should always crouch down and allow him to approach. Petting should be on his chest rather than his head. Arm your visitors with food treats as rewards whenever he approaches.