DOG'S COMMON FEARS YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW ABOUT
Dogs are excellent at hearing and smelling. Of course, nature has gifted them such abilities to adapt to the environment. But sometimes excessive sensitivity can have a negative impact and make dogs vulnerable. They have a self-preservation instinct that allows them to identify danger.
Danger provokes fear in the dog, and in some cases even a phobia. Since the dog rarely can realize the cause of the thing they are afraid of, the fear doesn't disappear over time but accumulates.
How to understand your dog is afraid
- trembling
- cowering
- barking
- drooling
- destructive behavior
- aggression
Fears are a fairly common phenomenon that many people experience, to one degree or another. For some of us, fears develop into phobias. There are the most common phobias among humans: fear of heights, insects, snakes, flying, and public speaking. This entire list has long been familiar to us. It is interesting to know what can scare our furry defenders? The following list will help you expand your understanding of dogs and their weaknesses.
Noise phobias
- As we have mentioned previously, a dog's hearing is way more sensitive than our own.Thunderstorms create a loud cracking sound that repeats at regular intervals. Also, thunderstorms produce a large amount of static electricity in the atmosphere. Dogs like no one else feel his static as tingling throughout their haircoat. At times like this, a secluded spot in your house, far from the source of the sound, will serve as a hideout for the dog.
- A second common noise phobia in dogs is fear of fireworks. Fireworks are not only loud and unpredictable sounds but also the accompaniment of lighting effects. The dog loses control of the situation and giant aerial figures often make our furry friends tremble.
Social phobias
- At the veterinarian's appointment, the dog is stressed by being in a new room with many different unfamiliar objects and smells. Additionally, a pet is forced to have close contact with a stranger - a vet - who also occasionally causes pain. Let's be honest, we all hate doctor visits. And dogs are no exception.
- The fear of grooming likely occurs when a dog is overwhelmed by sensory input. Also, those dogs who dislike water or are not comfortable with body handling may have some troubles during their bath and trim.
- Fear of being alone at home is called separation anxiety. Those dogs who are prone to separation anxiety feel lonely as soon as the owner leaves the doorstep. A dog's cry for help can be expressed in the form of excessive barking. If separation anxiety is severe, you should consult your vet or a certified dog trainer.
- In terms of socialization, it is difficult for a dog to get settled into society. A fear of strangers is quite common because your dog may not want to accept every possible new person. This may be due to previous negative communication experiences that triggered psychological trauma.Â
You are the most influential person for your doggy. Recognize your best friend's anxiety signals and be a reliable shoulder. Let your fluffy know that he is not alone and there is no reason for fear if his beloved owner is nearby.
All photos are from Unsplash