How To Train Your Dog Not To Be Afraid of Loud Sounds

Loud sounds such as sirens, thunder, or horns are common things which can startle and scare dogs. While this is normal, some dogs become so afraid they they are not able to function properly. Dogs which are unnaturally afraid of loud noises can put themselves and others in danger. Some dogs may try to get under objects and get themselves stuck in the process. Some may urinate on the floor or bark too much.

While it may sound strange, rubbing your dog is the wrong thing to do in a situation like this. Though it may seem logical to try to calm down a dog which is afraid, you are sending a message to the dog that it is being rewarded for being scared. The dog enjoys being rewarded, and will assume that being afraid of loud noises is the right thing to do, when it reality it is the wrong behavior to display. The best thing to do when the dog becomes afraid because of a loud noise is to ignore them.

Of course, you want to watch the dog to make sure they don't get hurt. Otherwise, you want to avoid paying too much attention to them. This will allow the dog to overcome his fear by himself. If you leave the dog alone, make sure there is nothing he can hide under so he doesn't get trapped. If the dog shows a large amount of fear, you may want to place him in a crate. Once the dog has been in the crate for a while, he may began to feel safe. Getting your dog to overcome this fear can be challenging, but you don't want it hurting himself.

Another method of getting your dog to overcome his fear is to use distractions. By doing this you can take the dog's mind off whatever he is afraid of. If you know a storm is coming, take some toys and give them to the dog so that he becomes oblivious to the sound. You can also give the dog some treats. Another thing you might want to do is play with the dog during the storm. This will leave a good memory in his mind, and the next time a storm comes, he may not be afraid at all.

One of the best methods of getting the dog not to be afraid of the noises is making them listen to the sounds which scare them while they are relaxed. When the dog doesn't show fear, give him praises or a treat. This will give the dog an incentive not to be afraid of loud noises.