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The doghouse

If you're worried about your pet's health, please speak to a vet or qualified professional.

Original poster

Why is my dog cowering?

8 replies

LaurieFairyCake · 26/04/2018 17:13

There is literally no reason I can see and she’s always done it when I go to put the lead on.

The second it’s on and we go out she’s happy as Larry. Before I put it on she puts her ears flat back and cowers her legs down.

She’s a terrier (a Scottie) and she’s loves everyone, dogs slightly more than humans. She’s very independent and happily cuddles up to me in bed.

No one has EVER shouted at her - even when toilet training (with terriers it always takes longer). No one has ever hit her (obviously).

She just looks so upset when I put the lead on Sad

OP posts:
pigsDOfly · 26/04/2018 17:17

Could you have caught her hair in the clip as you were putting it on and it pulled. You'd probably only have to do it once and she'd never forget, or forgive.

As the owner of a very long haired fluffy dog that's something I have to be very careful about.

Judashascomeintosomemoney · 26/04/2018 17:22

Are you putting the collar on at the same time too? And is the lead and/or collar going over top of her head? IYSWIM? Lots of dogs do not like any approach over the top of their head. My adorable old softy Labrador girl used to cower her head slightly if anyone tried stroking her on it even though she loved being stroked. I’ve always taught my DCs to stroke a dog under the chin rather than top of head as so many dislike it.

Original poster
LaurieFairyCake · 26/04/2018 17:22

No she wears a harness - a tiny cower when I put the harness on and then she shakes it off and is happy - I usually put the lead on later

OP posts:
iMatter · 26/04/2018 17:23

It might not be cowering.

My dog puts her head down a bit and pulls her ears back when I put her collar or lead on. It's almost as if she's moving her ears out of the way and putting her head in a better position for me to get the lead/collar on.

Judashascomeintosomemoney · 26/04/2018 17:23

If it is that maybe try a rope lead that you might be able to get her to put her own head through with the help of a treat in your hand as you do it?

Judashascomeintosomemoney · 26/04/2018 17:25

Ah! Harness, I used a harness on my Labrador and she definitely would dip her head as the harness went over it. She never seemed distressed by it though.

User467 · 26/04/2018 17:26

Both my terriers sink when I put their harnesses on and then again when I clip the lead on. Not sure why. Absolutely fine once it's on 🤷‍♀️

Original poster
LaurieFairyCake · 26/04/2018 17:38

I so hope it’s a ‘terrier’ thing. Her wee face looks so sad

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