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Jumpy, clingy pup after fireworks scare..?

558 views 3 replies 4 participants last post by  Sweet Girl 
#1 ·
Diesel just turned one earlier this month and one of our favourite things about him is he is always up for anything. Car ride? Sure. Heading to a new place for the first time? Absolutely. New spot to explore? Count him in. He's truly so adaptable and more than anything he LOVES just heading out and not knowing where the day will take him - he's constantly happy.
But, last night, we were at the park where he encountered fireworks for the first time... and I have NEVER once seen him respond the way he did last night. He whine, and tried to run, but did so while cowering close to the ground, tail between his legs. He was shaking. I have NEVER seen anything like it in him before. We left, obviously, but I feel like the damage is already done.. he's jumpy when he hears a cupboard shut, clingy when he thinks we're leaving (which he NEVER is), and just all around still can't seem to relax. My partner and I are panicking. Have we ruined him and his sense of adventure? My heart BREAKS when I think of his experience last night. I feel like I let him down. Where do we go from here? How do we encourage his independence and adventure streak? We feel soooo guilty - poor little thing trusted us with all his heart and then we lead him to THAT. So sad..
 
#2 ·
Just keep taking him out places, especially places you know well and he knows are fun, make it very positive. He will work through this.
 
#4 ·
As hard as it might be right now, don't cater to his fear (that sounds way harsher than I mean it to). But you know what I mean? Just act normal, be confident, keep taking him places. If you baby him right now, he is learning that he is right to be scared. Try to distract him - if there is a loud noise and he seems scared, toss a toy or call out, want a treat?

Sorry that you're having to deal with this. Poor guy. (BTW, what was the occasion for fireworks on Jan. 22nd??)
 
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