How to Help Your Dog Tolerate Strangers

Does your dog love cuddling up with you but often gets withdrawn or skittish whenever someone else approaches them? You're not alone. Many dogs are uncomfortable with meeting people for different reasons. For some, it's their breed's temperament, while for others, it's a result of a past traumatic experience.

When dogs are uncomfortable meeting strangers, they express their discomfort in different ways, including barking, lunging, growling, or snapping to warn the stranger to stay away. Some dogs would even run away or hide to escape the person.

While your dog may never learn to love or greet everyone, you can train them to be comfortable around people, making it easier for you to go to public places with them. Do this by exposing them to the sights and sounds of strangers but limiting the exposure to a threshold where they are comfortable and not reacting. Also, reward them with treats when strangers are around so they would make positive associations with people's presence.

Helping your dog overcome their fear around people can be difficult and overwhelming. However, you should never punish your dog or force them to interact with strangers. That would only escalate the problem and may lead to biting. If you're struggling with helping your dog become comfortable around people, seek help from a qualified trainer.