Noise Phobias

The Problem

Dogs have very sensitive hearing and as such they can get extremely frightened by loud noises and unusual sounds (e.g. fireworks & thunder).

The Solution

• Desensitise when young
  When your dog is a puppy, exposing him or her to a range of sounds in a controlled fashion gives a much better chance of steering clear of noise phobias once adult years are reached.

  A special Sounds CD can be very useful for this.

  This desensitisation can gradually be progressed so that more frightening or alarming sounds are introduced at later stages.

• Reprogramme your dog
  You can also reprogramme your dog by conditioning them to associate a previously frightening experience with good feelings e.g. with treats or toys and basically anything which occupies theirmind.
• Create a safe place
  Another good way of dealing with the fear associated with noises is to create a safe place for your dog which is full of comforts - they are less likely to be scared here.
• Alternative remedies
  Furthermore, homeopathic remedies or indeed drug therapy can be used to combat noise phobias.