If your dog is noticeably scared of something, you may want to keep the following information in mind:
- It is normal for a pup to be afraid of loud noises and unfamiliar things. If you know that fireworks are going to be going off near the house, you may want to leash your dog, even bring it into the house. It's often helpful if the dog can be put in a dark, quiet room, with someone staying the dog. Although the person should not comfort the dog, their presence with the dog can be useful and may even distract your pooch. Comforting the dog might be a bad idea because it effectively rewards the dog for being afraid. Loud noises can hurt your pet´s sensitive ears, which may be part of his fear.
- Is your dog just timid, or is it a phobia? If your dog has grown afraid of common situations, you should first schedule an appointment with your pet´s vet. It´s important to rule out any medical cause for your pooch´s fear.
- It is possible to desensitize your pup to his fear triggers. For example, if your dog is terrified of strangers, you can have a friend help you by making small, short visits. A little at a time, introduce your dog to your friend, and gradually the visits will get longer. Don´t force the issue, however. If your pooch gets nervous or scared, you should stop and try again later. By punishing your dog for its fear, you might actually be reinforcing that fear.
- Is your dog just timid, or is it a phobia? If your dog has grown afraid of common situations, you should first schedule an appointment with your pet´s vet. It´s important to rule out any medical cause for your pooch´s fear.
Don´t forget that your vet may be able to prescribe medication while you are helping working on your dog´s fear issues.
