Hi all, would appreciate some help on this. My lovely senior rescue dog has always had an anxious disposition. She’s okay around other dogs, but never approaches them. Usually she’s submissive or just stands against my lap if she does interact with them. She also co-exists with my family’s spaniel, neither really interacts with each other.
In short, a month or so ago, a small terrier like dog broke off its harness while we were at the park & charged over to attack mine unprompted. We were a good while away too. Separated them promptly, checked her over etc. Thankfully she’s fine (medium sized spaniel), but she’s been too anxious for walks where I live since. I’ve tried different paths instead of the original park she was attacked & the first few times it was alright. However a few weeks later, she refuses to walk even with encouragement etc. She now stalls by the car park near the back of my place, prior to reaching any park/path. I just had her stop maybe 6 times in a row on an attempted walk. She was okay when my dad was visiting, but still was too wary to stray off the lead (over woody areas).
It’s very unfortunate, I felt like she was gaining her confidence slowly but surely (was very jumpy with noises prior). I’ve had her for nearly 3 years now. However, this incident has clearly knocked her confidence but I am not sure how to approach it best. Thank you for your time reading this & I would appreciate any kind advice.
submitted by /u/orionic
[link] [comments]