Calm & care
Confidence Around New People
For mild to moderate unease around unfamiliar people: comfortable distance and a calm, neutral helper.
What it is
For mild to moderate unease around unfamiliar people: comfortable distance and a calm, neutral helper.
Why we created it
Pairing a person’s presence with something good, at a distance your dog can manage, makes it easier to keep practice manageable.
Goal
Relaxed behaviour while a neutral person is present at a comfortable distance.
Before you begin
You’ll need
- A space you control, with a way to retreat.
- A cooperative adult helper who stays still and doesn’t approach or touch.
- A reward your dog values and can have.
What you’ll do
Your first session
- Start from a distance your dog is already comfortable at.
- While the helper is present, give your dog the reward.
- Let your dog retreat or opt out.
Things to notice
- Whether your dog takes food.
- Signs of distress and recovery.
When to stop or get help
- Don’t move closer if your dog refuses food, shows distress or can’t recover.
- Growling, snapping, lunging, bite risk, severe fear or loss of control needs professional help.
About this guide
This guide never moves on to greetings or touch. There is no universal distance.
Progress gradually and pause if your dog shows discomfort or reluctance.
Adapted into plain language from Nara’s prepared protocol material. It is general information, not a diagnosis or veterinary prescription, and it doesn’t report trial results.