Working with the Shy Sheltie
Here are some helpful links and reading resources for working with shyness in Shelties:
Websites & Online Groups:
THE BEST resource I have found is the shy k-9s yahoo group: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/shy-k9s/
This resource scientifically dispels some of the myths (e.g. the one about comforting a scared dog), and has great resources for starting out to help the dog adjust to you, your home and your family. The group is led by a woman who is obtaining her PhD in animal behavior science, and has terrific trainers (including ones who have timid Shelties themselves).
From a Shy-K9s list member who has compiled some great info in one place:
www.fearfuldogs.com
Click to Calm Yahoo Group (working with shyness and reactivity):
http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/Click_To_Calm_List/
Second Chance Sheltie Rescue's website:
http://www.sheltie4me.com/info/display?PageID=5279
Recommended Books:
Help for Your Fearful Dog by Nicole Wilde, www.phantompub.com.
Probably the best book out there on this topic.
The Diary of Lucy Blue: A Puppymill Survivor's Story by Janice Mitchell of Second Chance, http://www.sheltie4me.com/info/display?PageID=5250.
This book is about a puppymill Sheltie she rehabbed and also has a step by step, day by day outline of how to work with these dogs.
The Cautious Canine by Dr. Patricia McConnell, http://www.patriciamcconnell.com/product/cautious-canine-dog-training-book.
Very easy read (more of a pamphlet), with steps you can readily implement.
Dispelling the myth about reinforcing fear:
http://www.theotherendoftheleash.com/you-cant-reinforce-fear-dogs-and-th...
Although the article refers to fear during thunderstorms, the science behind the concept applies equally well to fears and anxieties arising from any source.
http://www.sthuberts.org/petpouri/articles/fear_factor.asp
Scroll down to where it says, "*MYTH*: "Don’t pet your dog when he is afraid or you will reinforce his fears."** This bit specifically talks about petting a dog when it is fearful, but the same reasoning applies to using food during a counter-conditioning process.