We all have something that we are afraid of or something that scares us. Same thing happens with our dogs, loud noises (like fireworks or thunder), new situations (like getting in the car for some) can be scary moments for them. Dogs can not tell us exactly what is causing their fears so it is up to us to understand what is making them uncomfortable and help them feel safe and secure.
“Fears can occur with the strangest set of stimuli,” says Peter L. Borchelt, Ph.D., of Animal Behaviorist Consultants in Brooklyn, N.Y. “It can be everything from the sound of bubblegum popping to thunder. But there are so many components within that stimuli that you have to deal with all of the elements surrounding that sound.”
For example, a dog who appears to be afraid of garbage trucks is probably actually frightened by the crushing sound the vehicle makes—not the truck itself.
To minimize fears, Dr. Borchelt says that desensitization is something that can be done at home—but it must be done consistently and compassionately.”
The good thing about desensitization is that you always move forward if it’s done right,” he says.
Playing sounds of storms in the background often helps cure fear of thunder. Sit with your dog while the sounds are playing softly, help him feel safe and relax (use some treats if needed) until he gets used to the sounds, when he starts being comfortable you can increase the volume gradually.
A common fear for city dogs are garbage trucks, a simple recommendation from Dr. Borchelt is walking your dog as the garbage truck makes its route. You can start slowly by staying a block or two away from the truck and slowly work your way up until he is familiar with all the sounds and you can safely pass by it.
Origin Of Fear
Like with humans, fear may be caused from a single incident.
Some common triggers for fear are loud noises -fireworks, thunder, bursting balloons. For this, simply try your best to avoid exposing your dog to these situations when possible.
Vacuum cleaner, phone, blender and even a flashlight are some of the household items that can trigger some anxiety, however these fears can usually be relieved with a simple introduction to the accessory in question.
“You can make [him] associate that object with a pleasurable experience, like receiving a treat,” Dr. Borchelt says. “Give [him] limited exposure to whatever it is that frightens [him], and then reward [him].”
Overcoming fear takes a lot of patience and time, but remember it can be done and it is always worth it. “It’s usually not a huge investment of money, but it does take a lot of time,” Dr. Borchelt says. “It’s the same as having a child who is shy. You work on it gradually but continuously. It’s just something you and your dog get to work on together.”
Relaxing Side By Side
The best way to avoid fear is to stop it from developing in the first place. Early exposure to sounds and situations is very important.
“It’s best if you can start when they’re puppies,” says Dr. Peter L. Borchelt, Ph.D. “You’ve got to take them outdoors and expose them to the world. The later in life that you begin to do that, the longer it will take and the harder it is for them to adjust.”
Having fun, exploring and being curious play a big role during this process.
“Go on playdates, go to the park together,” he says. “Go for walks around different sounds. The biggest thing is just to get them used to the world around them so it isn’t something that is frightening.”
In Summary
Our dogs count on us to make them feel secure.
It will take patience and persistence to overcome his fears. Just remember that you can make it fun and it will be worth it.
When using desensitization techniques keep them positive and fun. Make it a positive experience, use some treats and lots of praise once he starts showing positive behavior towards the cause of the fear.
It is very important to never force your pet to interact with anything that he is afraid of or that causes him anxiety. Stop if he shows any signs of stress, remember it is better to be patient and go to the process little by little, using the treats and praise each time.