We have all heard about Fight or Flight. In fact, we have discussed those two responses to fear/stress several times already. Those are the two most well-known responses, but there are others.

Freeze – this is when the dog stands motionless. They will not take treats. They are hoping the scary thing will not see them and go away. This may be a momentary pause before they choose to fight or flee or they may remain motionless much longer.

Faint – this is not very common, but dogs may actually faint if they experience a high level of fear.

Fidget – the dog will not be able to stand still. They will be in constant motion and cannot sit still. This is the dog’s coping mechanism. This may include showing over the top play behaviors, mouthing, biting the leash, rolling around and jumping up. This is a displacement behavior.

Flight – the dog may choose to run, walk, move away, hide, etc.

Fight – the dog will begin escalating up the ladder of aggression until they find something that eliminates the threat and fear they are feeling.