You may not realise it but there are a number of phobias that occur frequently in dogs, and are often associated with pups not being well-socialised or not being exposed to different environments and sounds within the first few weeks of puppyhood. When puppies are young they easily acclimatise to loud and unfamiliar sounds, and this makes them much less likely to develop fears and phobias as they mature.
Common phobias include loud noises such as gunshots, fireworks and thunder. Affected dogs show signs of anxiety and restlessness, and may even become highly distressed or destructive.
Therapy can be helpful! Dogs can benefit from a desensitisation programme to build up tolerance of their phobias, and may cope best if this is carried out together with a course of medication that reduces anxiety. We can advise you further, and can set up medication and/or behavioural therapy as necessary. In addition - at high risk times, many affected dogs benefit from a 'safe place' such as an indoor kennel in a quite secluded area. A calm owner that ignores their fears rather than feeding into it with excessive reassurance is very important.
So, be cool, be calm, and give us a call if you want to discuss any of this in further detail!
