Scaredy dog really is one gem of a book. I currently care for a female dog Labrador/German Shepherd cross, who has issues regarding being nervous around strangers, lunging at bikes, other dogs etc. She is now 2 years old and improving but only slightly. After reading this book I believe the dog hasn't had the correct training yet sadly. Reading this book has completely helped me to understand the reasons for her behaviour (one being that she missed out on the prime socialisation period)but also, that there are other dogs out there just like her, and they have been rehabilitated. The book makes you feel positive about training your dog, that putting her down isn't necessarily the right choice in such a matter (as lots of people have made me feel)and that it's all well..okay.
Every example in this book, is what my dog does, and Ali details simple but effective training method for such reactions using positive reinforcement and negative punishment, but she also gives reasoning behind her methods. Scaredy Dog provides information about the various training techniques available for dogs, but then details which are not appropriate for such a dog, some techniques of which have been recommended to us by professionals. (Also, just reading a good explanation of Positive punishment, negative punishment etc, was great)
Having tried professional trainers and not seen much improvement since using the training methods, this honestly has helped me no end. Thank you Ali!!!xx