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Fearfulness can be an outgrowth of shyness. A shy and fearful dog is one who panics quickly because of loud noises, the approach of strangers, a car ride, or just going out for a walk. He may hide, freeze, urinate, defecate, whine, or run barking to a safe place. The usual outward appearance of a shy and fearful dog is one who rolls over submissively, lays his ears back, or folds his tail between his legs.
Shyness in itself is not a problem. It is when the shyness, representing certain fears the dog may have, results in growling, snapping or biting as defense behavior. A shy dog growling, snapping or biting as defense behavior. A shy dog is one that has not been properly socialized during the critical period before weaning. He may be a dog who was always kept in a kennel away from human contact or a dog who has been with a quiet, single, sedentary person. The shy dog usually becomes overdependent on his caregiver, and many times that person inadvertently reinforces shy behavior by trying to coax or calm him. This is not to say that a shy dog does not make a good pet. He may be an ideal companion for someone who lives alone and rather quietly. This is also not to say that a shy dog cannot be rehabilitated. It will take some time, Obedience training, and patience!