What should youth handlers do if their Jack Russell shows signs of fear?

Providing comfort and reassurance to a Jack Russell Terrier that shows signs of fear is the most appropriate response. This approach helps foster trust between the handler and the dog, ensuring that the dog feels safe and supported in a potentially stressful situation. It's essential to acknowledge the dog's feelings without forcing it into the scenario that is causing fear, which could exacerbate the anxiety and lead to a negative training experience.

This method not only helps the dog to gradually acclimate to the fearful stimulus but also supports a more positive association over time. By creating a calm environment and using gentle reassurance, the handler encourages the dog to face its fears at its own pace, which is crucial in building confidence.

Other responses fail to adequately address the emotional needs of the dog. Ignoring the behavior might overlook the dog's distress, while scolding could harm the bond and trust the dog has with its handler, leading to further fear rather than alleviating it. Withdrawing completely from training could also hinder the dog's development and prevent it from learning to cope with fear in a structured way.