You need patience, a positive attitude and understanding when handling a skittish dog.
A feral dog poses a big challenge when it comes to introducing the dog to home life, but it is not impossible to train. Start at an early age if possible because puppies are more receptive to training than older dogs. Remember that you are taking this dog out of its wild environment and trying to integrate it into your household, so consider how strange the situation is for the dog. Move slowly around the dog and praise its progress with food and affection.
Instructions
1. Choose a location in your yard for your dog where it gets a lot of foot traffic. Place a leash on its neck so it can't jump onto people or run away. As an added step of security, place a muzzle around its snout if you think it is likely to bite.
2. Sit down at a safe distance from the dog and talk to it. Don't make eye contact and keep your head raised so you assume a nonthreatening posture. Spend a few minutes with your dog several times a day to make it used to interacting with you.
3. Introduce your dog to other domesticated dogs so they can interact. The wild dog feels compelled to copy the behavior of the domesticated dogs, so it will warm up to humans faster.
4. Hold your hand out to the dog when you feel it is safe to try to give the dog affection. If it shows no signs of distress, move forward and lightly pat it on the head. Slowly introduce more physical affection into your routine.
5. Take your dog on walks once it understands you aren't a threat. Your dog will appreciate the physical exercise. The process also helps your dog associate you with a pleasurable activity.
Tags: domesticated dogs, into your