Puppies and dogs need to be confident, playful, and confident. Unfortunately, many suffer from a syndrome called “kennel shy” or, as some vets now call it, kennel shy. These animals are usually the ones found in shelters, pet stores, and hideous puppy mills. Unfortunately, they acquire peculiar behaviors and irrational fears during their confinement, mainly due to a lack of socialization and human interaction.
The behaviors of a shy kennel pet almost mimic those of people with autism. The animal may appear fearful, withdrawn, timid and unable to bond, powerless to respond. They may appear flat, display a sense of indifference, not act in response to playing with people or other animals, lack self-confidence, possess obsessive-compulsive behaviors, constantly hide and/or be hypersensitive to normal noises and activities. They are usually in a perpetual state of stress and nervousness, unable to relax.
Physical responses may include uncontrollable shaking, cringing, timid decapitation, and little or no bowel or bladder control. They appear in a constant state of panic.
Some who are exceptionally fearful might exhibit antisocial behaviors such as growling and serious biting if they feel cornered or threatened. This could even happen with those you know.
They may “doe-eyed” or refuse to make eye contact.
Watch for eccentric behaviors with removal. They can eliminate only in their cage/kennel or on concrete, because that is the accepted norm for them. They may refuse to walk on grass or carpets, because they have rarely been allowed out of their cage or kennel or given the freedom to roam a home.
They may display self-indulgent obsessive-compulsive behaviors, such as walking in circles, tail chasing, pacing, chewing on objects, or chewing on themselves. You may find them fixated on a single item, such as a toy or a blanket. Others find self-gratification by persistent barking or relentless whining.
Most of the time, the origins of this condition are excessive confinement in a crate or kennel, severe punishment for matters beyond their control, lack of human socialization/interaction or it could also be learned behavior from a shy kennel mom. .
Depending on the severity and how long the animal has suffered often determines if there is a successful change. It takes time and patience to help them build their trust in you. And that is just the beginning! You can start by putting yourself on their level. Don’t rise above them. Be patient. Allow them to come to you. Don’t chase them. The transition is solely at your comfort level.
Find something, anything to which they respond positively. It can be a toy, a special gift, or a tennis ball. Use it liberally as a reward for any upbeat behavior.
Keep activities short. Always end on a positive note. Leave them wanting more interaction with you.
Praise, praise, praise! Praise each attempt or small step of progress.
Keep calm, keep your voice soft.
Slowly socialize your pet. Nothing drastic. Let it be brief. Keep it positive. Walks and car trips are a good start. Don’t coddle or coddle them if they seem nervous. They will usually be watching you to see how you react to various situations. By displaying carefree behavior, you’ll be teaching him to associate new experiences with self-confidence.
Don’t rush them! Be thankful for winning every little hurdle. Remember that this is more difficult for your pet than you can imagine.
Bottom line: a shy kennel animal is not a happy animal. There is no doubt that they are a challenge. If you’re up for the challenge, be prepared to make a serious commitment of time, energy, patience, and love to help them overcome this deviant behavior. Keep in mind that some never do! Raise the bar slowly. Use praise tones. With confidence comes self-confidence. With self-confidence comes a happy dog!