Recognising the signs for when your dog is afraid of noises is an important part of helping them. In this blog we look at the obvious and the more subtle cues to look out for, including panting, licking lips and moving slowly
Fear is a normal response and aimed at keeping us safe
One of the important ways to help your dog if they are fearful of noises is to recognise it so you can intervene early.
The fear response is a normal part of life and is aimed at keeping the animal alive. For example, we humans are pre-programmed to be fearful of wriggly moving things that could be snakes.
Phobias are the result of previous (scary) experiences, sometimes just one overwhelmingly scary event. My best friend has a phobia about spiders after one crawled over her face in bed. Daughter no 2 has a phobia of moths and, strangely, elastic bands. (Don’t ask.)
Excessive fear responses in dogs can be due to a variety of factors, but the main one is inadequate socialisation. (See my blog and my books, especially Pesky Puppy and How to Socialise your Dog, if you want to know more about this.)
Are noise phobias linked to breeds or gender?
There is increasing evidence that noise phobias can be inherited: herding breeds and cross breeds are particularly susceptible to noise phobias, possibly because they have been bred to be sensitive to their environment. Females are more prone to phobias than males. Paw preference may also be linked – more about that another time.
Most people recognise the major fear signs:
- Shaking or trembling,
- A tucked-under tail,
- Cowering
- Eliminating (weeing and pooing),
- Running away,
- Not eating, and
- Hiding
But you might not spot some of the more subtle signs:
- Salivating,
- Panting (when it’s not hot),
- Furrowed brow (looking nervous)
- Asking for or demanding attention,
- Yawning (though they may just be tired)
- Licking lips,
- Pacing around and
- Moving slowly.
If your dog displays fear signs, read our blogs for find out what you can do
So next time you hear an odd or loud noise, watch your dog carefully. Do they show any of these signs? Do they look fearful or nervous?
If the answer is yes, then take action now as described in the previous emails. Don’t ignore it. And please, ask us for help if you are worried about your dog’s behaviour.
Keep training and stay safe,
Carol
