Dogs have different personalities, just like people do. Some dogs are full of energy, playful, and outgoing by nature. They enjoy being around other dogs and people. But other dogs are a bit more reserved. They may be shy and sit back and watch all the action instead of being part of it.

Of course, being shy or reserved isn’t necessarily a trait that has to be fixed. They may just be innate personality characteristics. Your dog may be perfectly happy curled up in their bed at home or sitting on the sidelines. But sometimes, shyness is the result of anxiety, stress, fear, or lack of confidence. If this is the case, there are some ways you can help your reserved dog gain more confidence.

What Makes a Dog Shy or Reserved?

A dog that is shy or reserved isn’t one that seeks interaction with other dogs or with people. You may notice that they are uncomfortable when they are in new situations. They may move closer to their owners, or back further away from action. They may be wallflowers, happy to sit back and watch all the activities around them without the need to join in. A shy dog is identified by their unwillingness to approach and engage with other dogs and people.

It’s important to note that a dog’s personality may fluctuate based on specific situations. Their actions may be driven by unease or caution in unfamiliar situations. A dog that is shy may be playful and outgoing with their family and those they are familiar with. However, they may be more reserved when they are around strangers and people they do not know.

Signs Your Dog is Shy or Reserved

The main sign that a dog is shy is that they move away from action, or move closer to their human when they are placed in an uncomfortable situation. Some other signs of shyness include:

• Hesitation: Shy dogs do not like to approach new situations.
• Reduced Activity: You may notice your dog freezing or showing minimal exploration when they are in an unfamiliar or new place for the first time.
• Hiding: A shy dog may seek shelter behind their human or under furniture.
• Avoidance: They may avoid eye contact. They may not be too eager to approach new people.
• Yawning or Licking: Yawning or lip licking is an attempt at self-soothing or self-calming.
• Less Vocal: Shy, reserved dogs tend to be quieter. They may take in the scene instead of calling any attention to themselves.

Submissive body language is another sign that your dog is shy. What does that look like? Some signs are:

• Putting their ears back
• Lowering or tucking their tails
• Showing their belly
• Stiffness
• Crouching

What Causes Dogs to Be Shy or Reserved?

Some dogs are just naturally more reserved. Not every dog is outgoing and energetic. Some dogs just don’t feel like they have to be part of the action. But there can also be a few things that contribute to shy or reserved behavior.

Understanding why a dog is exhibiting shy behavior and providing them with the right support, can help your dog fee more comfortable. Let’s take a look at some of the main reasons dogs are shy or reserved.

Genetics can contribute to canine shyness.

Just like people, dogs inherit traits from parents. Genetics can have a lot to do with temperament. Some breeds are naturally more cautious or reserved. For example, Akitas, Shiba Inus, and Chow Chows tend to be among the shy breeds. Herding breeds like the Border Collie can be anxious, cautious, or shy.

For example, Basenjis may come across as shy since they are not social butterflies, but they are really more independent. Another independent breed that may appear reserved is the Karelian Bear Dog.

How lack of socialization and the environment affects shyness in dogs.

The lack of socialization during the puppy years can impact your dog’s behavior in their adult years. This is why early life experiences are so important. Dogs who lack enough socialization or that didn’t have much human interaction during their first three to four months may tend to be more shy. How much time they got to spend with their litter can contribute to shyness. So can having a limited circle of interactions with humans or animals.

This is why it’s so important to make sure puppies are set up for success early. A scared pup will grow into an adult dog that is scared of everything if you don’t start early.

Negative experiences can increase shyness in dogs.

Dogs that have negative experiences, like neglect, abuse, or a traumatic event during their formative years may become shy or fearful. It’s just a defense mechanism for them, just like humans. It is very possible for a puppy to start out confident and outgoing and then have a traumatic event that totally changes their temperament. They can go from being outgoing to reserved because of the trauma.

Learning and observation can elicit shy behaviors.

Dogs are observant and can learn shy behaviors from both people and other dogs they interact with. If a dog sees that there is another canine reacting fearfully in a situation, they may start to respond similarly.

Health issues can influence shyness in dogs.

There are some situations when what seems like shyness is linked to an underlying health issue. For example, if a dog has visual or hearing impairments, they may seem more reserved. It’s just because they are unable to connect with their surroundings effectively.

If you think your dog may have a health issue, schedule an exam with their veterinarian. This is even more important if you notice a distinct change in your dog’s normal behavior. This is in addition to keeping up with their regular vaccinations and checkups.

How to Help a Shy or Reserved Dog

Reserved dogs don’t always need any help. Just like humans, some are introverts and others are extroverts. When a human is comfortable in their own space, they don’t necessarily want to be pulled away from what is familiar and comfortable. Dogs are the same.

However, if a dog is exhibiting shyness or reservation based on fear, you can help them gain or regain confidence. Go as slow as they need and pay attention to the clues your pup gives you. If you force them into uncomfortable situations, you can make the problem worse and they will retreat even more.

The keys to success are getting the consent from your dog each step of the way and sticking to a predictable routine. However, there are some practical ways for pet parents to offer support for their shy dogs.

Socialize your dog gradually.

Start to slowly introduce your dog to new environments, people, and animals. Begin with short interactions in environments that are not too busy. For example, schedule a small playdate with another doggy friend or two, rather than taking them to a crowded dog park. As your dog responds favorably and gets more comfortable, slowly builds up.

Focus on creating controlled situations that help your dog have successful, positive interactions. You may want to expose them to a calm, older dog that has gentle manners. Another example is having a friend who is familiar with shy dogs come over for a visit. Consider the dogs’ sizes too.

Remain patient and calm.

Patience is the key, but it’s also important for you to stay calm. You want to model this behavior for your dog. Your pup can pick up emotional cues from you. It’s important for you to show them that there is nothing to fear.

Each dog has their own emotions, give them plenty of time to come out of their shell and allow them to do so at their own pace. This also helps you build a stronger bond with your pup. If you do get frustrated, just take a break and try again later.

Use positive reinforcement.

When dealing with a shy dog, stay away from punishment and negative reinforcement as much as possible. Use positive reinforcement to foster confidence. Use treats, play, and praise to reward a dog when they demonstrate bravery or engage in social interactions. Rewards should be highly motivating to your dog.

Before you head out with your shy dog for a reconditioning playdate with your friend’s dog, grab a custom dog harness to ensure your pup stays safe. We’ll help make sure your pups’ harness fits comfortably and securely which helps your dog feel safe and connected to you at all times. We have a wide range of colors and designs so it’s easy for you to find a harness that matches you and your dog’s personalities.