How to Gently Approach a Skittish Dog (Without Scaring Them)

Not every dog you meet will come bounding toward you with tail wags and wet kisses.
Some are cautious. Nervous. Skittish.
Maybe they’ve experienced trauma, or maybe they’re just wired to be more fearful of new people or environments.

So how do you convince a skittish dog to go with you—whether you’re a groomer, sitter, rescuer, or just a kind stranger trying to help?