We all have our fears, and so do our fur babies. My Dachshund bolts at the tiniest sound from a truck. My Pug mix is petrified of umbrellas and balloons (and a list of other things). My pups are both rescues, so maybe these phobias stem from something in their past. Since they can’t understand there is no danger, I do my best to make them feel safe and encourage them to slowly face their fears.
Banks the Golden Retriever has anxiety over a certain area of his home and took a giant step forward toward conquering it.
@perfectgoldenbanksBalconies = SCARY #golden #goldenretriever #BANKS #fluffydog #cutestdog #puppy #dog
In the TikTok from @perfectgoldenbanks, the gorgeous Golden was sitting at the open door of a balcony but wouldn’t go outside. Though his tail never stopped wagging, Banks had a reason for not moving forward.
“POV: Your Golden Retriever is terrified of balconies,” the onscreen text revealed of Banks’ hesitation.
The petrified pup’s mom was outside on the balcony cheering him on, letting Banks know she was there for him. She crouched down and clapped her hands, encouraging him to take that important first step.
Banks looked around and moved his head toward the outside, but then fully backed away from the open sliding door. The persistent pooch screwed up his courage and headed back toward the door and walked through it onto the balcony to his mom’s waiting arms. She gave Banks plenty of well-deserved praise for the heroic feat.
Dogs exhibit fear by trembling, avoiding a certain item or area, yawning, pacing, and sometimes growling or whining. Even a wagging tail can mean your pup is nervous.
Their phobias may stem from an unpleasant experience in their past or be part of their personality. You should never force your fur baby to overcome their source of stress. Don’t push them toward them object of their fear — this can lead to more anxiety in your dog and cause unwanted behavior like nipping or biting.
Patience and positive reinforcement are the best tools in helping your dog overcome their fears. Slow exposures with lots of praise and rewards can build bravery and trust with your pooch to start taking those courageous steps.
Banks can now enjoy the view from the balcony — he is one gutsy Golden!
