3 Canine Phobias and How to Manage Them

Is your furry best friend fearful of certain situations? If your dog is stressed, you probably want to find a solution that will ease your pet's anxiety and make unavoidable situations less stressful. Whether your dog is frightful of the vet, car rides, or thunderstorms, these tips can help them overcome their fear.

Many dogs develop a fear of vet visits. Your dog may become anxious and stressed out at the vet’s office because the animal associates the environment with an unpleasant experience. If you notice your dog acting fearful whenever they visit the vet, try the following techniques. Arrange for Social Visits Bring your pet around to the veterinary hospital just for a meet and greet session. Allow your dog to sniff around and greet new faces. If your pet goes to the vet just to socialize for a little while, he or she will become accustomed to the environment. Once it is time for an examination, your furry friend may not be intimidated or nervous. Try a Practice Examination At Home It may seem unusual or even silly, but consider enacting a role-play situation at home and pretend to be the vet examining your dog with a pretend stethoscope. Repeat this session several times a week until your dog becomes accustomed to being prodded and such. When it is time for an actual vet exam, your dog might not find it quite as intimidating.

Although many dogs absolutely love going for a car ride, some dogs simply fear instead. Because car rides will be inevitable at certain times, you need to find a way to desensitize your dog. Consider the following practices. Create a Safe and Secure Interior Create a comfy and safe spot for your dog inside your vehicle. A crate, a familiar cozy blanket and a favorite toy may help make your dog feel more secure. Help your dog relax in the car by playing some soft music or speaking gently to the animal. Go to a Favorite Destination Try to get your pet to associate a car ride with something enjoyable and pleasant. For instance, a trip to the dog park might help Rover learn that car rides can lead to fun activities at their favorite places.

Does your dog howl, whine or cower in fear at the first sound of a clap of thunder? Maybe your pet becomes very clingy during a storm, or even hides under a bed or chair. Some dogs experience thunderstorm phobia, and this can be very unsettling for both pets and owners alike. In extreme cases, you should consult your veterinarian , who may suggest medication or another treatment option for your pet's anxiety. Meanwhile, you might try these techniques. Prepare Beforehand If you know a storm is approaching and your dog will be frightened, make some preparations before the storm hits. If you have a safe and cozy retreat for your pet, settle the dog in. Settle your pet in a quiet area away from rattling windows and where the thunder is less likely to be heard. You might also close the shades or blinds so lightening cannot be seen. Desensitize Your Pet to Loud Sounds Exposing your dog to loud sounds and simulated thunder may seem counterproductive, but it may actually help. Try playing a nature sounds CD or white noise machine so your dog will get used to the sound. Be by your pet's side while playing this simulation and speak softly and reassuringly. Your dog may become accustomed to loud sounds and realize that nothing scary is associated with them. Like humans, dogs can have phobias and fears. This typically isn’t a bad sign, and you can often address the fears yourself. If your dog is fearful of many things and no measures seem to be helping, consult your veterinarian.