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When Baby Cries: Helping Your Dog with Noise Sensitivity
Dogs with noise sensitivity often react strongly to sudden or unfamiliar sounds. This can include barking, whining, hiding, or even destructive behavior. Noise sensitivity can't be "fixed" without counterconditioning, but we can make things more tolerable for our dogs. As a mom who has been through this transition, I want to share some general strategies on how to help your dog stay calm and comfortable in a noisy environment.
Why your dog needs a Safe Space
One of the most effective ways to help your dog cope with noise sensitivity is to create a safe, quiet space where they can retreat when they feel overwhelmed. Ideally, this space is unreachable by children.
Make Your Dog a Den
Dogs with significant noise sensitivity and anxiety will naturally seek out a hiding place. We can provide a safe and reliable hiding place by turning a crate into a Den, where your dog can retreat to when things get scary.
- Choose a Quiet Room: Select a room in your home that is far from the source of the noise and has minimal external sounds. A basement or an interior room with no windows can be ideal.
- Cover the Crate: Drape a large blanket or a specially designed crate cover over the crate. This helps to block out visual stimuli and create a den-like environment. Make sure there is still enough airflow by leaving one side partially uncovered.
- Soft Bedding: Line the bottom of the crate with a soft, comfortable bed or blankets. Choose materials that are easy to wash and maintain.
Utilizing Aromatherapy
ADAPTIL® Dog Calming Pheromone Diffuser
ADAPTIL® is a synthetic Dog Appeasing Pheromone that mimics a mother dog's natural nursing pheromones. Studies show it may help reduce common signs of stress caused by visitors, fears, staying home alone, and loud noises like thunder or fireworks
ThunderEssence® Calming Essential Oils
ThunderEssence is a calming essential oil made specifically for dogs. It contains 100% natural essential oils from Lavender, Chamomile and Egyptian Geranium.
Using a Sound Machine
Sound machines or white noise machines can help mask external noises that trigger your dog’s anxiety. Here’s how to use them effectively:
- Choose the Right Sound: Experiment with different sounds like white noise, gentle rain, or music (Classical or LoFi) to see which one your dog finds most soothing.
- Pair with Mental Stimulation: Always pair your sound buffering with high value mental stimulation to foster and maintain a positive association. Learn more about Mental Stimulation, here.
- Use Consistently: Turn on the sound machine during known noise events, such as thunderstorms, fireworks, or when baby gets loud, to help your dog stay calm.
Pharmaceutical Interventions
Some dogs may require situational anxiety medication like Sileo®. I've written another article that covers the topic!
In Conclusion
Helping a dog with noise sensitivity requires patience, consistency, and a combination of strategies. By creating a safe space, using sound machines, employing aromatherapy, providing mental stimulation, and considering situational behavior medications, you can help your dog feel more comfortable and secure in noisy environments.
Remember, every dog is different, so it may take some experimentation to find what works best for your family. If you need more personalized advice, or are ready to fix the issue for good, consider booking a free behavior evaluation call with me to learn how I can help you achieve Dog & Baby Bliss!
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Hi, I'm Jaime!
Best Selling Author
Dog & Baby Expert
IAABC Canine Behavior Consultant
Jaime specializes in helping families harmonize the relationship between their dogs and new babies. With a compassionate, science-based approach, Jaime offers practical advice and training techniques to ensure a smooth transition for your furry friends.
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