Some dogs are terrorized
by loud noises. This terror is usually learned from a traumatic experience
which occurred at the same time as the noise. It can also be learned by
transfer. For example, if you showed fear of a loud noise one time, your
dog would learn that loud noises are to be feared. A dog’s ears are
sensitive, and loud noises can hurt them.
Whatever the reason, try to shield your dog from loud noises. Keeping him in
the house on New Year’s Eve or any other holiday. If your dog is already
afraid of loud noises, then a process of desensitisation will help.
To desensitise your dog, expose him to low-volume noises while giving him something
pleasurable such as praise and a food treat. Gradually increase the noise level,
praising his tolerance, until the fear no longer manifests itself.
If your dog is afraid of thunder, firecrackers, or gunshot, get a recording of
these sounds. Play the recording at a low volume barely audible but high enough
to be heard and not frighten him. At the same time praise and reward him with
his favourite food treat while the recording is playing. In the beginning, introduce
the recording for a short period of time several times a day. Increase the time
interval each day and slightly raise the volume. Continue to offer large measures
of love and reassurance, praise, and food treats as the recording is playing.
If you get an adverse reaction, you may have increased the volume too much too
soon. This should be done about three or four times a day for a week or two or
until you feel that your dog can tolerate the noise at a loudness that simulates
it in reality.
If your dog does not respond to desensitisation, it may be wise to get a tranquillizer
from your veterinarian and administer it just before certain holidays, the hunting
season, or a predicted thunder storm. It is not easy to anticipate when a loud
noise will occur. For example, the backfiring of a car may send your dog under
the bed for a few hours. The best you can do if you are with your dog when a
loud noise frightens him, is to act happy and unconcerned. If your dog suspects
you are frightened also, he will react accordingly.