MY GREAT DANE SPENCER IS A THREE YEAR OLD FAWN DOG. HE WAS RESCUED AT EIGHTEEN MONTHS. HE WAS UNDERWEIGHT AND VERY NERVOUS WHEN I GOT HIM. HE SETTLED DOWN NICELY AND BEGAN TO PUT ON WEIGHT. UNFORTUNATELY BECAUSE OF HIS NERVES HE HAS BOLTED THREE TIMES. THE LAST OCCASION HE INJURED HIS PAW AND NOW HE REALLY DOES NOT WANT TO GO OUT AT ALL. HE LISTENS OUT FOR ANY NOISE AND AS SOON AS HE HEARS A HEAVY VEHICLE HE RUNS AND HIDES UNDER THE SIDE BOARD. WHAT ADVISE CAN ANYBODY GIVE ME AS TO HOW TO GET HIS CONFIDENCE BACK

It sounds perhpas as if your rescue Dane has never been properly socialised and used to everyday occurences. Difficult especially with a dog that size.

Hmmm - if i were you i would consider contacting a behaviourist through vet referral, make sure they are good and a member of a reputable organisation such as the UK Registry of Canine Behaviourists - there are some very bad ones out there talking out of their wotsits so beware!

If you are in sured then the company will probablypay but don't go to one who charges huge fees as a good one won't.

Take care that you always give your dog confidence and don't reassure him when he shows fear, as he will take it that is the way to behave. Be as matter of fact as you can.

What are you walking him on? A headcollar may give you more control but use an extra lead/double lead or attach something to his collar too in case he slips out of the headcollar. Try the gentle Leader.

Good luck!