Filed under Fireworks In The World
Fireworks Milan
Fireworks Milan
Fuochi artificiali - Thriller and Fireworks - Milan's homage to Jacko
How do I help my dog get over his fear?
My dog is incredibly afraid of loud noises. For example: fireworks, gunshots (just target practice with pellet guns), shaking open a garbage bag etc. I have tried associating the sounds with positive things, such as giving him a treat whenever I shake open a garbage bag, but he still has his fear.
I try to avoid him being around these sorts of sounds, but it is not always avoidable. We love to take him camping and sometimes people set off fireworks and stuff, but it's so dangerous because he runs for cover whenever he hears them, and sometimes that means off into the bushes.
I saw an episode of Dog Whisperer where Caesar Milan had a trailer set up to get the dog used to those sorts of things...but what can the average person do to solve this?
Background info: I have had him since he was 16 weeks old, and he is now 5 years. He is a sheppard crossed with norwegian elkhound.
Please do NOT hold and comfort your dog when he is scared! This will only reinforce his fears. Instead, when he acts fearful, just laugh, and say Ooops, just a firework, silly dog. In other words, DO NOT REACT in any way that tells him it is ok to be afraid.
Has he had this fear since you got him? Or is this something new?
First, I would have a thorough veterinary check including bloodwork. Some illnesses can cause noise sensitivity, such as hyper and hypothyroidism.
Next, when you expect to expose him to these situations, give him a melatonin tablet. This is a naturally-occurring sedative (it is not a drug). It will help him relax.
You can also use a tight t-shirt or purchase an anxiety wrap. There is research that has shown that a body wrap can make a dog feel more comfortable and less stressed.
Tape record the sound of gunshots and fireworks. At home, play it very softly for a few days - and then gradually increase the volume. This can help desensitize him.
Never, never let him off leash at the campgrounds. He could get into serious danger; be injured by a wild animal, be hit by a car, be stolen...it is just never good to have an unreliable dog off leash.