Some dogs naturally have lower self-esteem and need an owner willing to work with them to boost their confidence. Dogs suffering from low self-esteem will look to their owner for support and encouragement. Boost your dog’s self-esteem through a variety of activities that will also help you bond.
1. Obedience
A dog that knows what is expected of them is a happy, confident dog. Obedience training is a great way to teach your dog manners and lift their self-esteem. Join a local basic obedience class and learn the simple commands that will help transform your slinking, shy pup into a confident sidekick strutting by your side. Most obedience classes will last about an hour with only about 30 to 45 minutes of actual instruction and work. Most basic obedience classes are more laid back in their teaching styles. You can begin training for competitive obedience once you have mastered the basic commands. Obedience training can be done indoors or outdoors and only requires a collar, leash, treats, and a little patience.
When working with a dog with low self-esteem, it will probably be best to find a dog club with a trainer who is experienced and able to teach you how to properly train your timid dog. With a dog that is unsure or has low self-esteem, you do not want to dive straight into competitive obedience training. You want to start slow with a basic obedience class or even teach a few of the basics at home.
2. Rally
Rally, also known as Rally Obedience, is a new twist on competitive obedience. You and your dog work together as a team to complete a course of generally 10 to 20 different tasks or stations. Rally is a much more relaxed activity and communication between handlers and dogs is greatly encouraged. The American Kennel Club has recognized Rally as a sport and even awards titles to dogs ranging from novice to master. Find a Rally event in your area and go check it out to see if this is an activity you would enjoy with your dog. Performing in Rally is a great way to boost your dog’s self-esteem.
An experienced handler can train their dog for Rally without actually joining a class, however, a person new to the sport will need to find a club near them so they can join in and learn the basics. In the rally class, you will learn basic obedience commands such as sit, down, stay, and heel. While in class, your dog will be able to learn how to tune out the distractions of other people and dogs and focus solely on you. Their self-esteem will rise as they become more confident in knowing what is expected of them. Dog sports are a great way to help your dog’s self-esteem.
3. Targeting
This is an easy activity for any dog and offers instant gratification which is perfect for a dog with lower self-esteem. Targeting simply is teaching your dog to touch a designated target for a treat, toy, or praise. Your dog can use their foot or nose to touch the designated target. Many people use target training as a way to teach house training by placing a bell on the door handle and having their dog touch the bell to signal they need to go outside. Targeting can be trained during any weather and is a cheap activity to do with your dog; all you need is treats and a designated target, a collar and leash are optional.
Targeting is easy to teach your dog and they will quickly pick up on the game. The reason targeting is such an easy activity, even for dogs with low self-esteem, is that they receive instant gratification when they touch the right target. When you are out with your dog, keep some treats handy and when they begin acting anxious focus their attention back on you by engaging them in targeting. They will soon forget why they were anxious and will be happy to have your full attention and a few treats.
4. Trick Training
Dogs that have a specific job to perform will be a more confident dog. Teaching your dog a trick will help boost their self-esteem. When teaching your dog a trick, consistency, and praise are the way to build them up. Never scold or act angry with your dog during a training session. This will make them more anxious and will undo any confidence-boosting activities you have already done.
Your dog will be excited to learn new things and their confidence or self-esteem will rise each time they learn something new. A lot of praise and treats while training will let them know you are pleased with what they are doing and make them want to keep trying.
5. Agility
When you watch agility, you see happy, confident dogs. By teaching your dog agility, they will also build their self-esteem because as they conquer each new obstacle it will make them feel good and they will work hard to earn your praise and a reward such as a treat or a toy.
The obstacles will seem scary and may overwhelm your timid dog, however, be patient and provide plenty of praise and treats. A seasoned agility dog can also help a timid dog learn how to perform each obstacle. Take your time learning new obstacles and provide a lot of praise when they do it right. Before you know it, they will be zipping through the course like a pro.
Some dogs are born with a softer nature while others have had bad experiences that strip away their confidence and cause them to have low self-esteem. It is their owner’s job to provide activities that will help them overcome their fears and build their confidence. Numerous canine activities will help give your dog’s self-esteem a boost and do not be afraid to try a few to see which ones are the best fit for your dog. Just remember when working with a dog that has low self-esteem to keep things lighthearted and give them plenty of praise and rewards.
