my dog is a very anxious dog, when he is in stressful situations he pees and doesn’t go near anyone for hours. He has some aggressive behaviour with new people and I’m scared to walk him but i want to get him socialized but I’m afraid something might happen. He’s very sweet to everyone in the home but when new people come around he barks a lot and is in distress. I want to know if there is any dog friendly calming treats or something to help with his anxiety so im able to take him out.
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Hello,
I am sorry to hear this about Malone. Not all dogs can be well socialized and go out into public. Some dogs can be incredibly dangerous and beyond training. I would not do anything that could risk someone getting hurt. Dog bites can break bones and take lives.
There isn't much that a calming treat would do in this situation- that might take the edge off of a dog that's a tiny bit nervous, but not like what you're describing. It sounds like Malone needs more serious medical intervention for his level of anxiety and fear. He likely needs daily medication to help him manage his emotional and mental health before you can try to start slowly and safely introducing new people or environments. A consult with a veterinary behaviorist would probably be the most helpful for you both. You may also be able to find a local veterinarian with an interest in behavior that might be able to guide and help you both through this as well. The most common first line medications they will likely discuss with you are Fluoxetine (prozac), gabapentin, and trazodone.
Some dogs have meaningful, happy lives that don't involve major socialization or new people. Sometimes we have to reframe our expectations of what we want in a dog to what our dog can actually give. It may be possible that Malone does well with walks in the future, but it also may not ever be something he ever wants to do.
I hope this helps. Take good care. I wish you both the best. Thank you for using PetCoach.
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