Shih Tzu puppy terrified of strangers

My 7 month old Shih Tzu puppy is absolutely terrified of strangers. If there are visitors to the house he will run to an opposite room in the house and bark and howl if i put him a room anywhere near the visitors he will pee on himself and go hysterical just at the sound of their voices :( He is uncontrollable in these situations becuase he is just so frightened, even after they leave, he is reluctant to wander into the rooms they have been in. When i take him for walks and we pass strangers he will put his tail between his legs and walk on the oppostie side of the footpath and keep looking behind him as if he is still being pursued. Once i was talking to an old man watering his garden on a walk, and my dog just yanked on the leash crazily trying to get away and peed himself, obviously terrified, we were even several feet away from him on the footpath...really worried about him. your suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Posted: 17/09/2007

Answer: Puppy terrified of strangers, Adelaide (SA)
Shih Tzu's can be a little neurotic at times. My suggestion to you is to discuss a short course of drug therapy (approx 3 months) and some very productive behaviour training. The drug therapy will help your little one to relax a little which will aid your reconditioning and training efforts. In this sort of situation I would defiantly recommend the drug therapy as your pooch seems so clearly distressed. Your vet should be able to point you in the right direction in regards to qualified trainers and classes. Every little bit will help. It may take a while to see results but hang in there!
Posted: 28/09/2007