My mongrel dog seams to have developed phobia of me and my family, What could be

1. 53

   Teddy Matolaposted 10 years ago

   My mongrel dog seams to have developed phobia of me and my family, What could be the problem?
   
   Each time we try to get close to him he runs off to stand at a distance. He was such a lovely dog. What could we have done wrong? We don't beat or chase him away.

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2. 62

   NornsMercyposted 10 years ago

   Some dogs don't like when people tower over them or are excited (we see it as "nice") when they approach them.
   
   Try making yourself smaller (crouching, balling up) and giving him your side or back (less threatening/intimidating position). Maybe he'll approach you instead.

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   1. 53

      Teddy Matolaposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      Thanks a lot We will try the trick

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3. 0

   cjaroszposted 10 years ago

   Sometimes dogs can become skiddish for a lot of reasons. The main thing is to get him back to being around you guys. Make sure that he is fed often. Try using treats to get him to come to you so you can pet him. Make sure that you do not express anger towards him. Watch and see if anyone including neighbors have been treating him wrongly.
   If he used to be a loving dog, then most likely something someone did spooked him. You just need to show him love again. Doing things that dogs love, and showing him that your fine.
   Going for walks, treats, play time.

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      Teddy Matolaposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      Will try to do a little detective work to see if some one is mistreating him. Thanks anyway.

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4. 85

   wychicposted 10 years ago

   Have you tried taking him to the vet? There are a number of reasons a dog might develop a phobia from an unfamiliar smell to an unpleasant experience (even someone accidentally stepping on his paw or tail), but sudden personality changes are often health-related. If he's in pain for any reason, he doesn't understand why. He may think that he's done something wrong and thinks his humans are inflicting the pain, and so he runs away. Until he can be health-checked, be gentle and patient with him. Try not to make sudden movements or raise your voice, don't look directly in his eyes, and let him come to you. If he runs away, let him get his distance -- he'll come back and try again when he feels secure.

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