Do Things That Go Bump in the Night Terrify Your Dog?

     Just as we have phobias and fears, so do dogs. The stress created by these phobias can affect your pets health. Identifying the reason for these phobias can help create a path to their improvement.

Noise Phobia

It is impossible to figure out why your dog is afraid of certain sounds. They can't communicate that fact to us. Your dog may be fearful of sirens, alarms, vacuum cleaners or thunderstorms. Anything that is away from the ordinary can frighten your dog. It could be caused by the noise itself. The drop in the barometer can cause ear discomfort in your dog. This is similar to what you would feel in an airplane. Dogs with bone disorders can also have increased pain during weather changes.

Sometime in your pets history there may have been something negative or traumatic that has occurred in your dogs life. It could have been caused by the vacuum running over a paw or a tail, or your dog may have been beaten while living with another owner. The genes can also be a culprit.

When your dog runs under the bed or into another room at the first sign of a storm, you may be dealing with a phobia. If your dog is outside and is trying to get in as a storm approaches, it is possible that the dog could injure himself trying to scratch down the screen or the door. Dogs have also been known to jump through a window during a storm in an effort to escape.

While many symptoms are not obvious at first, they will worsen over time. You have to observe your dog during these times and take a positive approach to the treatment. Preventing your dog from these negative behaviors is your job. There are simple steps that can be taken.

If your dog is fearful of the vacuum, you should take your dog into another room during the times you are vacuuming. If you are fearful of a storm, that fear is transferred to the dog as well. Try to remain calm and upbeat during a storm or other loud noises that alarm your dog. During that time do not give your dog extra attention when he appears fearful. By maintaining your normal demeanor, the calm may be contagious.

Crate train your dog. This will give him a safe place to go when he is fearful. Turn the radio or television on when a storm is approaching to provide distracting noises. When your dog finally calms down, it is important to give praise or a treat. Entertain your pet during a storm to distract him from the obvious.

It is also possible that you may need to visit your vet for a mild sedative or a holistic vet for the proper essences that promote calm. Whatever your path, it is important to relieve that stress and allow your best friend to feel comfortable at home. This is his safe haven and it is up to you to keep it that way.