Q: Our dog gets very upset by loud and unexpected noises. What can we do to help him get over this problem?
A: Unfortunately, many things that frighten dogs are not within our control, such as cars that backfire, fireworks, or thunderstorms. When the dog becomes frightened, you can distract him by playing and/or talking happily. He will usually turn his attention to you and be enthralled with the game. The distraction discourages him from concentrating on the object of fear. Dogs cannot fully concentrate on two things at once, and by preventing the dog from focusing on the frightening stimulus, there is a greater chance the upsetting experience will not imprint on or remain with him. If he focuses on the frightening situation and fear intensifies to a traumatic level, he will always be afraid of the particular event and may generalize the fear to any similar situation. In extreme cases a dog can become nervous and fearful all the time.
A noise can be created in another room, across a field, or at some distance while the dog is distracted with food or play. If the dog shows no reaction, the distance between the dog and the noise is shortened in very small increments, a couple of feet at a time. If there’s a startled reaction, talk normally, distract the dog, and wait until he’s relaxed and engrossed in a pleasurable activity before repeating the sound. Depending on how severe the dog’s reaction is, repeat the noise either farther away or at the same distance. The noise should not be made louder or closer if a startle reaction is apparent from the dog. Only make the noise louder and closer after the dog does not react to the previous distance. Desensitization does not have to be accomplished all in one day. As a matter of fact, if the training session is too long, the dog’s stress level may rise.
To find out more about dealing with fearful dogs, watch the section on shyness and fearfulness in the video, The Mentally Sound Dog
If your dog focuses on the frightening situation and fear intensifies to a traumatic level, he will always be afraid of the particular event and may generalize the fear to any similar situation.
Dr. Clark is a member of
Association of Pet Dog Trainers.
International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants.
The National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors.
