The Abused Dog

Over the past 18 years, I have worked with a countless dogs with fear issues that have resulted in separation anxiety, fear aggression and biting, lack of ability to trust people or other dogs, and even a form of dog PTSD.  This dog always seems to tug at our heartstrings.  So, what I am about to say, may seem a bit controversial because it is so close to our hearts.

Many times, we make the assumption that this dog has been abused in his previous home. We desperately want to “love” his fear away. We think all he needs is understanding, a warm sofa, food whenever he wants it and our undivided attention.  It has become incredibly easy for us to believe that we can change this dog’s life. 

While our hearts are in the right place, studies are now showing that temperament, including fearfulness is genetic.  That comes as quite a shock to many of us.  This means that a dog that suffers desperate fear or shyness may not respond to our efforts to love the fear away, or if they do respond, the response is minimal after tons and tons of effort on our part.  

Yes, there is the exception.  I have also seen dogs that we knew for a fact came from an abusive situation, and after a short rehabilitation did recover.  This is because their basic temperament is genetically solid in the first place.  

While there are indeed dogs that have been abused in a previous situation, we must understand that if he has a genetically sound temperament he can recover.  We must also understand and accept that just because a dog is fearful or shy, does not mean the dog has been abused, but rather this characteristic is genetic in nature and most likely cannot be changed significantly even with love and rehabilitation.  It is who the dog is. How do you know the difference?  You don’t always, until you put some time and effort into the dog.  

The important thing to remember is that “abuse” should not be an excuse for fearful or shy behavior.  Behavior is most likely genetic and prone to continue.  As I said, the dog with a solid temperament can suffer through abuse and still be sound, happy and well adjusted.

Photo:  “This little pup is afraid of most things, even a camera.  See how her eyes dart away and her mouth begins to tighten.  Even with all her hair, it is easy to see her anxiety.  This dog was never abused.”