boxer behaver

Question
we have a 6 yr. old boxer name KC she has started  running and hiding from noises, like rain or a fire in thee fireplace, or a change in noise from playing the tv and playing a dvd. she will not go out in the rain to use the bathroom. but she will stay around the noise if kids are in the room. she does no have a problem if we leave the house and she does not tear up anything,we have put her on a leash an brought her close to the noise and tried to calm her but this does not work so any info you can give us would be appreciated.
Thank you
David Walker

Answer
A vet check-up is always a good idea for a sudden change in behavior like this.  I'd recommend having a full (OFA) thyroid panel run, as hypothyroidism is common in Boxers and can cause behavioral changes.  

If medical issues are ruled out, you can start trying to desensitize her to noises; there are thunderstorm and fireworks CDs that you can play at very low levels while she's doing something very enjoyable, like eating, gradually increasing the volume as she gets accustomed to the noise.  This will help her associate the noise with Good Things.

I have had luck with the DAP diffuser at alleviating storm phobia; it's a little unit that plugs into the wall - similar to an oil-based room freshener - and releases a synthetic form of the pheromone bitches release when they're nursing pups.  It doesn't work for all dogs in all situations, but it does work for many, especially if used in conjunction with a behavioral modification protocol such as the desensitization described above.

Good luck!