Originally Posted by
annkie
I agree with socializing and getting him use to strangers petting him. Also, when I take my dog to the vet I handle him. Not the tech, not the vet. I do it. He knows ME. He trusts ME. I stuff treats in his face and I'm the one comforting him. The second time I took Jules (my lab) to the vet I let the doctor and tech handle him. He was terrified! He struggled so hard. I said to myself, never again! From then on I did the handling and he was just fine. With Archie (not a lab) he's much more nervous. But I did the handling and he tolerated it. It helps if the vet and tech first have a friendly greeting with the dog. Maybe a belly rub.