- January 8, 2026
Shy dogs are cautious, wary, and standoffish. Why would someone want a dog that acts like that? The answer is: who wouldn’t want a dog like that. The satisfaction of helping a shy dog gain their confidence is so rewarding. Shy dogs can often grow to become the very best pets.
The difference between a shy dog and a fearful dog is that shy dogs can eventually relax and calm themselves while fearful dogs have intense irrational panic. Fearful dogs usually benefit from behavioral training with professionals or medical intervention to allow them to overcome their fears and anxiety.
Shy dogs just need a loving hand and patience. A shy or a fearful dog can easily be confused. Treatment for these dogs is vastly different, so it is important to know which kind of dog you are dealing with.
Shyness is a personality trait. The same as it would be in a human. Think of a dog in the same manner. Dogs can become shy in some situations, but as they relax, they can come out of their shell and be more social. The solution for shyness is to build confidence and find ways to manage anxiety.
Shy dogs may be hesitant or cautious around new people, other animals, or new environments. They will likely observe the situation and take their time approaching. They may run away or retreat if the situation becomes too overwhelming. But these are issues that can be dealt with, and the dog often will adapt and be more comfortable in anxiety filled situations.
Oftentimes in a humane society or shelter environment, shy dogs present themselves and their fears almost immediately. The Flagler Humane Society will usually house these dogs in a quiet office or quiet section of the kennel area until the dog has gained some confidence and can be moved to a more public adoption area. These dogs are given the time to adjust and become comfortable.
Currently, we are housing a dog named Roxy who has a classic shy dog personality. She is overly cautious and wary of everything around her. She was surrendered for chasing cats but she was immediately labeled as a shy dog and brought into an office to begin her confidence training. The first few days she was allowed to decompress with no expectations of her but to eat a good meal and to lay in a comfy bed.
She was given the time to take in her surroundings and become used to the people who would be caring for her. She started out hiding under a table, but she has slowly begun to come out of her shell and will now follow her caregivers around and kiss the back of their legs. She will need a loving home that will give her this same time to adjust that the Humane Society has.
If you or someone you know has a shy dog and needs some help, call your local humane society as there are resources to help you help your pet.
Katie Share is the lead animal services officer for Flagler Animal Services and has been with Flagler Humane Society for nearly 25 years.
