Reactivity
      Back to home
      1. Partners Dogs Knowledge Base
      2. Training
      3. Reactivity

      Neophobia

      How to deal with neophobia in dogs.

      Introduction

      Neophobia is the fear of new objects/things being added to the environment. It is a common behavior in dogs, and it can be caused by a variety of factors, such as genetics, early experiences, and lack of exposure to new things.

      Common Misconceptions

      • Some people believe that neophobia is only a problem in puppies. This is not true. Neophobia can affect dogs of all ages.
      • Others believe that there is nothing you can do to help a dog with neophobia. This is also not true. There are a number of things you can do to help your dog overcome their fear of new things.

      Neophobia - Video Walkthrough

      Steps to Address

      Teaching Phase:

      • When the dog is in a comfortable and relaxed state of mind, slowly begin introducing the new object into their environment.
        • This could mean being in a quiet room, or being on a leash in a park.
        • It is important that the dog is not feeling stressed or overwhelmed when they are first introduced to the new object.
      • If introducing sounds or noises, begin with the new sound being soft and quiet.
        • You can play a recording of the sound, or make the sound yourself.
        • Mark and reward each time the dog hears the sound.
      • If introducing objects, begin with the object at a comfortable distance from the dog, where the dog is not stressed or nervous.
        • You can place the object on the ground, or hold it in your hand.
        • Mark and reward each time the dog looks at or interacts with the new object.

      Reinforcing Phase:

      • If introducing a new sound, slowly increase the volume, proximity, and intensity of the sound.
        • You can do this by playing the recording louder, or by getting closer to the dog when you make the sound.
        • Mark and reward each time the dog hears the sound without becoming stressed or fearful.
      • If introducing a new object, slowly bring the object closer to the dog.
        • You can do this by placing the object closer to the dog, or by handing it to them.
        • Mark and reward each time the dog looks at, sniffs, or touches the new object without becoming stressed or fearful.
      • Keep the dog's introduction to new sounds and objects brief to prevent overstimulation and stress.
        • Aim to end each training session with the dog feeling calm and relaxed around the new object or sound.

      Proofing Phase:

      • Incorporate new objects and sounds into each training session.
        • This will help the dog to become familiar with new things and to learn that they are not something to be feared.
      • Use obedience to engage your dog and keep them from becoming stressed or overstimulated.
        • This could mean teaching your dog a new trick, or practicing a familiar trick in a new location.
      • Correct for inappropriate behavior, but keep the training sessions rewarding and motivational.
        • If the dog shows signs of stress or fear, take a break from the training session and try again later.

      Maintenance Phase:

      • Incorporate a new element into each training session.
        • This could mean introducing a new sound, object, or location.
      • Do not allow your dog to fixate or become actively stressed when exposed to new things.
        • If the dog starts to become stressed or fearful, take a break from the training session and try again later.
      • Corrections and overstimulation should be infrequent.
        • The goal is for the dog to be able to calmly and confidently interact with new things.

      Case Studies

      • Case Study 1: Charlie is a 2-year-old Labrador Retriever who is afraid of new objects. His owners started by identifying the triggers. Charlie was afraid of the sight of new objects, especially if they were large or noisy. They started by desensitizing Charlie to new objects by gradually exposing him to them in a controlled environment. They started by showing Charlie a picture of a new object, and then they gradually increased the amount of time he was exposed to the object. They also counter conditioned Charlie to the objects by pairing them with food. Charlie is now much better at handling new objects, and he is no longer afraid of them.
      • Case Study 2: Sadie is a 10-year-old Beagle who is also afraid of new things. Her owners started by identifying the triggers. Sadie was afraid of the sound of new noises, especially if they were loud or sudden. They started by desensitizing Sadie to new noises by gradually exposing her to them in a controlled environment. They started by playing a recording of a new noise, and then they gradually increased the volume of the noise. They also counter conditioned Sadie to the noises by pairing them with food. Sadie is now much better at handling new noises, and she is no longer afraid of them.

      Pet Parent Coaching Tips

      • Be patient and consistent. It takes time and patience to help a dog overcome their fear of new things. Be consistent with your training, and don't give up.
      • Start slowly. Don't try to expose your dog to too much new stuff at once. Start with small, gradual exposures, and gradually increase the amount of new stuff you expose them to over time.
      • Make it positive. Make sure the experiences your dog has with new things are positive. This means rewarding them for staying calm and exploring new things.
      • Don't force it. If your dog is getting overwhelmed, take a break and try again later. Don't force them to interact with new things if they are not comfortable.

      Conclusion

      Neophobia is a common behavior in dogs, but it can be addressed with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. By following the tips in this article, you can help your dog overcome their fear of new things and live a happy and fulfilling life.

      Frequently Asked Questions

      • Q: What if my dog is still afraid of new things after I've tried everything?
        A: If your dog is still afraid of new things after you've tried everything, you may want to consult with a certified dog behaviorist. There may be an underlying issue that is causing the fear of new things.
      • Q: What if my dog is aggressive towards new things?
        A: If your dog is aggressive towards new things, you should not try to handle the situation on your own. You should consult with a certified dog behaviorist immediately.