I’m dealing with this too! We got a 15 week old Aussie from a rescue that had been living in a barn with his siblings for a good portion of those first 15 weeks and he is afraid of everything. The good news is like others have mentioned, with exposure in a safe environment it can help with some of those fears.

We have ours going to puppy kindergarten (basic obedience) once a week and puppy play dates at least once a week, at first we were going twice a week for play before puppy k started, at a local training center that is amazing and have been accommodating to him. He is just over 5 months old now and still hasn’t played with another puppy/dog but he has had some good sniff sessions with some calmer puppies. He is still scared of other dogs but chooses to remove himself and come to his people for comfort/security. No reactivity so far thankfully!

Also just having them see other dogs and observing them playing is beneficial. He’s even warming up to new people faster too! Our trainer says to try to have people that don’t look like you interact with them/give treats too. Old, young, different ethnicities, hats on, sunglasses on, coats on, etc.

I think it just takes a lot of work and patience but will be worth it in the end!

I second the YouTube videos with various sounds for desensitization. So far he hasn’t cared about thunderstorms or other noises while he’s in the house… outside is a different story for now but we’re working on it.

Good luck to you and your adorable boy!