Understanding and helping a dog with crippling fear issues. (New Rescue dog from Neglect)

My dog hates the car, so you are lucky.

I just returned from the vet behaviorist with my rescue, who I've had for a year. He wasn't quite as fearful as yours, but plenty messed up from being a feral puppy, then in rescue for four years. Before he came to me he was at the foster for 3 months, and lived with 3 other dogs. I was told he preferred to hide in his crate as well. Patches stayed in his the majority of time for a few days, but came out on his own. I think removing it all together may not fair to the dog as it's his safe place.

They are pricey, but you may want to consider a vet behaviorist. i wish I had gone to one sooner. I tried a trainer and Patches had love and safety from us, but he could not let go of his anxiety all together, and he was suffering. The vet gave him clomicalm, like yours, but also like yours was hesitant. He also said he needs behavior modifications but had only vague recommendations. I think many vets are unsure or uncomfortable when it comes to the behavior stuff. The Vet Behaviorist spent two hours with us and developed a plan of both medication (Zoloft plus anti-anxiety, for now) and set up some behavior modification sessions with their techs. Going this route may give your dog (and you!) piece of mind sooner rather than later.

/r/Dogtraining Thread Parent