One wrong move during a 'fear window' can create a lifelong phobia. Here is how to save their confidence.
Between 8-11 weeks and 6-14 months, your pet's brain physically changes. The amygdala becomes hyper-reactive. It is an evolutionary survival shift, not a lack of training.
Did they just jump at a harmless Harakeke bush? If they are 'huffing' at things they used to love, they have hit a developmental wall. Recognition is your first step.
Your instinct is to soothe them. But using a worried voice can accidentally confirm that the Dairy or the letterbox actually IS dangerous. You need a new script.
Time to act a bit silly. If a letterbox is 'scary,' walk up to it cheerfully. Pat it, talk to it like it's a mate, and show your pet there is nothing to fear.
This isn't the time for boring kibble. During fear periods, use dried liver or roast chicken. You want to throw a literal party every time they see something 'scary.'
If your pet won't eat the treat, you are too close. Back away until they can focus on you again. Real learning only happens in the 'calm zone.'
A bad encounter at a local off-leash park right now can 'lock in' fear for life. This is the month to be extremely selective about who they meet.
Avoid the heavy crowds at the Saturday market for a fortnight. Protecting their psyche is far more important than a socialisation session right now.
Forcing them to 'face it' doesn't work; it just causes a meltdown. If they freeze, don't drag the lead. Simply create space and try again another day.
A five-minute happy trip to Animates is better than an hour-long stressful walk. Keep every outing short, sweet, and successful to build that 'bravery muscle.'
It is a growth spurt. Your job isn't to force bravery, but to be the confident leader they can copy. Stay jolly, stay patient, and this phase will pass.
Get the exact 'Jolly' scripts and the age-by-age fear calendar in our full guide for NZ owners.