Noise anxiety in dogs happens when your pup develops a very strong fear of loud noises such as fireworks, sirens, or thunderstorms.
Many owners don’t realize it, but some noises can cause a variety of anxious behaviors in their dog, even causing them to run away from home and get lost.
Unfortunately, this problem has been common for many dogs across the country. It is estimated that there are 5 million to 15 million dogs that suffer from noise anxiety. If your dog suffers from this type of anxiety, know that there are options available to help alleviate this stress. It is essential that you consult a professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
To help you identify the main symptoms of noise anxiety in dogs, we’ve listed some useful tips below. Be sure to check them out!
Noise Anxiety Symptoms in Dogs
Noise anxiety can cause mild to severe symptoms in dogs. Some, for example, are afraid of thunder. When this fear is mild, it can cause tremors or extreme attachment to the owner. When the fear is extreme, it can cause panic, destructive chewing, agitation, and may even cause the dog to jump out of a glass window.
Common Symptoms of Noise Anxiety:
- Agitation
- Panting without exercising
- Tail between the legs
- Wide eyes
- Excessive attachment to the owner
- Unusual barking or moaning
- Panic accidents (to relieve themselves in inappropriate places)
- Destructive behaviors (excessive chewing, digging, or scratching)
Learn More: Social Anxiety in Dogs: What Is It?
Triggers That Can Cause Noise Anxiety
It’s hard to figure out what causes a dog’s noise anxiety. After all, it can be related to all sorts of traumatic incidents, such as being around fireworks or being abandoned in a storm. To help you, we’ve listed some of the most common triggers below:
- Storms
- Fireworks
- Sounds from televisions, radios, or other devices
- Fire alarms
- Ambulances, police cars, or fire trucks
- Other dogs barking
- Noisy parties
Treatment for this Type of Problem
Before you try to treat your dog on your own, you should consult a professional so that they can make the correct diagnosis and recommend the proper treatment for your pup.
There are different treatments that work for different dogs, but only a professional can recommend the best one for your pup. Here are the most common treatment options:
Change the Dog’s Environment
Create a safe haven for your dog, such as a box with a blanket or another place to muffle the noise. You can also turn on soft music to mask the sound of the trigger.
If storms are a trigger for your pup, try to exercise your dog in advance so that he uses up energy, releases feel-good hormones, and doesn’t get so anxious.
Pressure Wraps
A pressure wrap is nothing more than anything that wraps around your dog’s torso and chest. It is important that the wrap provides constant, gentle pressure to your pup.
This simple method can help your dog feel safe and comfortable.
Behavior Modification
Desensitization is a behavior modification technique widely used to treat noise anxiety. Desensitization happens when you start exposing your dog to a low level of noise in a controlled environment. As your dog gets used to it, you can gradually increase the volume and amount of time exposed until he learns to tolerate it.
For best results, consult a professional who specializes in canine behavior.
Medicines and Supplements
If your dog’s anxiety is severe, your Vet may suggest medication. We recommend trying all other forms of remediation before medicating your pup.
If your dog suffers from noise anxiety, seek the help of professionals to help you overcome this problem. Although it seems like something serious, know that there are solutions for different levels of anxiety. Seek help and be patient with your pup throughout this process.
Learn More: Does My Dog Have Separation Anxiety?
Dog Walker Astoria
If you require help providing socialization opportunities for your dog and you live in Astoria, you can enroll your pup in daily Socialization Walks with Buster and Whiskers. We offer daily 1-hour Socialization Walks. If your pup is under-socialized, we will work with them to help desensitize them and get them ready for our Group Socialization Walks. You must live within our Astoria coverage area. In addition, your dog must be up-to-date on all required vaccinations. Laying a strong foundation in socialization is the best gift you can give your pup for a long and happy life together!
Buster and Whiskers is The #1 Dog Walking Service in Astoria, NY. If your dog needs more exercise or social interaction, enroll your pup in daily Socialization Walks with us. Contact us for a professional and reliable Dog Walker in Astoria! Follow us on Instagram.
