How Your Puppy Sees The World

Have you ever thought what the world appears like through the eyes of your puppy? It is frequently a scary place! Conditions that we, as humans, take for granted can be emotionally and mentally distressing for your pup. In order to identify any initial signs of anxiety or fear you need to recognize what your home appears like from your puppy's point of view, so you can help him develop into a happy and balanced dog.

Sight

A dog's vision is unlike ours - they don't see the same colours and are better at detecting small movements. Their understanding of their surroundings is entirely different to ours. Get down on the floor and have a look at the world from your pup's point. You'll see it is a completely different world to the one you see!

Sound

The sounds that we hear each day can be extremely frightening to a little pup. Keep in mind - you realize what the vacuum cleaner is and that it makes a sound - no-one explains this to the pup! As we can talk with each other we can explain noise and understand that there is nothing to be afraid of. Your pup has no notion if the noise threatens danger or not as you cannot simply tell him! So when he reacts to a knock on the door or the washing machine starting to spin, bear in mind he does not know that there is nothing to be concerned about. You have to train him not to fear these sounds.

Smell

A dog's sense of smell is much more sensitive than ours. When you are out on your walks he will like to sniff at each blade of grass and tree! This is where other dogs leave scent 'messages' and your pup will be 'reading' them as he smells!
Remember too, that when you are walking your puppy he will be at the height of car exhaust pipes. These smell bad enough to us, but just visualize being at the same level! Combine this with the sound of the vehicle engine and you have the recipe for a extremely frightened puppy.

Balance

Your pup's sense of balance and support makes him feel safe and secure. Picture then how he feels when you suddenly scoop him up off the floor - how would you feel if you were suddenly lifted 30 foot up! Be cautious when picking your puppy up; be slow and smooth and at all times hold his bottom, do not pick him up by his shoulders.
Another way he may lose his stability is on slippery flooring. You may believe he is being obstinate when he refuses to walk on the polished floor but really he is just frightened.

Desensitise your pup

The best way to avoid future issues of dog separation anxiety and fear is to begin early and accustom your puppy to plenty of different sights, noises and experiences. Wear another scent, wear a funny hat or glasses, hold a large bag, wrap your hair in a towel... there are so many ways you can alter your customary manner so that your pup is happy with all the changes. And make sure you make plenty of noise whilst reassuring him that all is okay and this is quite natural!
Nevertheless do not overdo it! Remember your puppy is very young and needs time to recover and relax. Make certain that when he goes to his bed that it is quiet and restful for him - otherwise he will be a nervous wreck!