[Todd]

Hi John
Thank you for your question. Fear aggressive dogs can be very challenging to desensitise and yes as Max says you are more likely to pose a 'threat' to her.
But i would tell you not to give up, getting through this stage can build a very strong bond with your dog and some of the most obedient and loving dogs i know have had fear aggression issues.
So here we go.
1) What you have been doing sounds brilliant. You have the idea of ignoring the wrong behaviour and reinforcing confidence.

2) As Max also mentioned, with fear aggression you have to be careful that you do not over-assert yourself and your family as the "alpha dog ", as it may only exaggerate your dogs lack of confidence. Your dog should know that it is bottom of the pack, but if you can make your dog feel a little more like a member of the family than what you already do, it will help build confidence.

It is important that you communicate to your dog that it is at the bottom of the pack, but at the same time your dog requires a confidence booster. I suggest you not have your dog on the furniture, on your lap, or on your bed. Your dog needs to know that it is not in charge.

However, if your dog does seem to be acting submissively, I suggest you just ignore it. For example if you growl at your dog and it acts afraid or submissive (e.g. rolling on its back, licking you, looking away, or growling) then just ignore it until it has calmed down. Do not look your dog in the eye, but between its feet (this is part of predator-prey psychology), get down closer to your dogs level and talk gently until it seems confident.

3) At any stage where things are getting too out of hand there are a number of things that you should consider. Firstly is a muzzle, the last thing i want and you will want is anyone getting hurt. The second item is D.A.P this is a dog appeasing pheromone that basically relaxes the dog and makes them feel more comfortable. Lastly other medication may be required but your vet will be the best person to contact over this.

4) The key to preventing your dog from being fearful is by positive reinforcement. This will take a great deal of time and patience, which it sounds you have a lot of. Firstly you should never give her any attention when she is being fearful eg hiding under a table, in a corner or not coming to her name. Turn away and look away till you can hear her moving towards you, don't speak to her or comfort her when she is hiding. Once she comes out praise her by saying "Good Girl", patting her and playing with her. Correcting can take a lot of time. It is a step by step process, and reprimanding or reinfoicing fear can reverse the whole process.

5) Once her confidence builds it is important to start socialising her. You must be careful not to throw her in the deep end in an environment with a large number of other dogs. You can ask a friend to bring over their dog and slowly introduce the dogs. If she starts being fearful take the other dog away and ignore her as above till she starts being more confident. Again this process can take a long time and should be gradual.

Dog Parks and Puppy Classes are great places to socialise as she will get a chance to meet humans and other dogs. Don't put her in large groups of animals. Introduce her slowly to the other animals and make sure not to reward fear. It is best to put her on a leash to meet other animals, if she hides behind your legs ignore her and make her stand beside you.

All you are doing is great and you are doinf everything right. Just be patient and take your time. I'm sure things will go well. Good luck.

Kind Regards

Todd Field
Kingdom of Pets Team