Have you noticed that your dog is timid or shy around other people or dogs? Is he nervous with unknown or unexpected noises? Specific sports training, such as agility, can help shy dog ​​train providing the atmosphere and framework that will build trust.

That being said, while these classes offer a great opportunity for you as the owner to learn about the sport and how to train, your four-legged friend may not be up for all the action. He may be quite comfortable under your chair or on your lap for a while before he’s ready to join in on the fun. It is not to worry. That just means the process just has to start off slow.

See, like many people, dogs have comfort zones and a timid or shy dog ​​learns within that area. Therefore, your training should start where you are safe. And agility sport behaviors should be taught in small increments. With this being the case, the best place to train a shy dog ​​is probably at home.

This leads to the next question. How do I house train my dog? First, you’ll need some “how to” instructions, as well as the do’s and don’ts of agility. You will also need some agility equipment. Fortunately, there are a number of dog training websites and facilities that can provide you with some excellent information on agility training. Additionally, there are many videos and books on the subject that provide details, visual aids, and even lesson plans on this subject. And they cover both ends of the spectrum, from beginners to experts.

Having some agility training equipment in your home will prove helpful. By acquiring this equipment, you can build it yourself, buy it or even rent it in some specific places.

The equipment you choose to use depends on the space you have available and the location where you will be training your shy dog. For example, how big is your garden? Can it contain 6, 8 or 10 obstacles? Can it be left installed or do you have to remove it after each training session?

The stability of the equipment is important as your timid dog needs to feel safe while working with it. A good place to start with stable equipment is to use an adjustable pause table set at 12″ to start. This is a good start for all sizes of dogs.

Knowing that your pup is timid and timid, place the table in an area that is familiar to him. If he barks at new things, start with the break table in the house to get him used to it. You will inspect and smell it on its own or with a little coaxing. It is important to remember that you should not put too much pressure on your dog by pushing him to accept the table. After all, baby steps work better with an insecure pet like your shy dog.

Using treats on a plate or placing his favorite toy on the table will help encourage him to climb on it. Please be patient as this step itself can take some time and multiple lessons. If over time the treats or toy don’t work, try holding it while sitting at the table. With a larger dog that cannot be restrained, sit at the table and keep him on a leash. If he backs off, try to coax him to come to you, but be sure to only reward or treat him when he comes to you. Treating or rewarding him when he backs off sends the wrong signal.

With time and proper training, eventually your shy dog ​​will jump on the table with just your cue word. When you announce “table”, “table”, “box” or whatever word you have chosen as a signal, he should jump on the table. Ongoing training should train your shy dog ​​to stay at the table while you walk away and then come closer when called. As with the other workout, small steps here mean distance builds slowly.

A contact trainer is a good transition from the rest table for your timid dog. The contact trainer is made in various designs. However, a 3-piece contact trainer with a mini A-frame side, a break table, and a mini dog walk side is highly recommended. With this equipment, your pup can sit at the pause table and then be courted by the A-frame or dog walk side. And again, training in small increments avoids the chance of overwhelming your four-legged friend and causing him to shut down.

Following these techniques to introduce your dog to agility training and working with new obstacles will help him overcome his shyness. And as you train your shy dog ​​and he conquers each new team, you’ll be excited to see his confidence grow.