Nominiert: Dog Writers Association of America Writing Comp 2026

Autorentext

Zazie Todd is the author of the critically acclaimed books Wag and Purr, and writes Companion Animal Psychology, an award-winning blog that shares the latest science about our animal companions and evidence-based ways to care for them. She has a PhD in Psychology and is an honors graduate of the Academy for Dog Trainers, affiliate member of the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior, and adjunct professor at Canisius College.

Inhalt

Part 1
Chapter 1: Introduction to the Science of Fear
Myth-busting fearful dogs
The idea of hope

Chapter 2: Fearful Fido
A tucked tail and a tight jaw
The stress system
Bite inhibition

Chapter 3: Making a Difference
Feeling safe
Staying safe
To be or not to be a safe person

Chapter 4: Why is my dog afraid?
The multiple causes of fear and anxiety
Pandemic puppies
Potential medical issues
Tips to prevent fear

Chapter 5: Training a fearful dog
Learning to like something
How to do Counter conditioning
Desensitization
Learning to do something
Relaxation

Chapter 6: Keeping your fearful dog happy and exercised
Meeting your dog’s needs
Activities and sports
Fun and play
The risk of running

Chapter 7: Understanding the role of medications
When to see a vet or veterinary behaviorist
The role of psychotropic medications
Nutritional and other complementary approaches

Part 2
Chapter 8: Wallflowers and other bashful beasties
Wallflowers and shrinking violets with people
Bashful beasties with other dogs
A common approach

Chapter 9: Thumps, bumps, and bangs
Fear of loud noises
Training dogs to not fear noises
Coping in the short term

Chapter 10: Needles and Thermometers
Don’t touch me
Choosing a veterinarian
Training that helps

Chapter 11: Don’t leave me!
Boredom or…?
Desensitization for separation anxiety
It takes a village

Chapter 12: Grrr, keep away from my my stuff!
Is that guarding?
Loving that approach
Drop, leave it, and emergencies

Chapter 13: Turning, turning
Compulsive behaviors
Fetch, fetch, but don’t chase the light
What to do while you wait for help

Part 3
Chapter 14: Getting help
Coping with a fearful dog
Seeking help from professionals
Rehoming and euthanasia
Working with dogs

Chapter 15: Fearful Fido No More
Fear in dogs and in people
Not on our own
A slow approach

List of Figures
Acknowledgements
References