This really isn't true. Some dogs can and will behave this way in a very strange environment, like the vet's, and will if they've never been socialized well (ie. they don't go for car rides often, etc). It's not indicative of abuse.

I've worked with dogs at vet clinics, as a rescue coordinator, in international rescues, and for the SPCA in adoptions, dog care, and behavioural assessments. I assisted with dog transfer, placement, and behavioral issues. I've trained dogs from puppies to excel in conformation, agility, etc.

People think their dog has been abused because he hates men. Or toasters. Or kids with hats.

The fact is that dogs can be afraid of anything they're not socialized with. It's very common for dogs to panic, vocalize, urinate, and start a vicious cycle in which they increasingly panic when they encounter said person or object.

We need to dispel this myth that dogs who freak out have been abused. People tend to believe their dog has been horribly abused and begin to think their behavior is a deep-seated trauma from abuse. It's often not.

They also feel guilt and such sadness that they tend to infantilize the dog, exacerbating the problem. They also feel embarrassed and feel the need to tell others it's bc the dog was abused.

In all these situations, owners then react by not addressing the problem behaviour and working on establishing positive reactions to the fearful object.