Fears and phobias are relatively common and can affect dogs of all ages and all breeds. But there is a difference between being fearful and having a phobia.
There is nothing more heartbreaking than seeing a dog that is fearful. The signs are easily recognizable; crouched body, ears back, staring eyes, head or body turned away from someone or something while the dog licks its lips. But fear can also cause dogs to show defensive behaviors like growling, baring teeth, barking, snapping or biting – and in many cases these dogs get labeled “fear aggressive,” “nasty” or “showing dominance.” Whatever labels we use to make sense of the behavior we are seeing, fear is an emotion that should not be ignored.
Fear is a normal response to an actual or perceived threat or situation and is “adaptive.” This means that being fearful is actually important for survival. If we did not learn to fear anything when we were growing up (like crossing a busy road in rush hour without a crosswalk) for example, we might not take care (and cross without looking) thereby putting ourselves at risk. So fear can actually help keep us and our dogs safe.
A phobia, however, is an exaggerated fear response that is actually maladaptive. It serves no safety function and can be harmful, interfering with a dog’s ability to live successfully. Dogs can develop phobias towards people, noises, riding in cars, walking in busy areas, being left home alone, going to the vet or even being around other dogs.
Some dogs are predisposed to certain fears because of genetics or poor breeding (being raised in a puppy mill or by an irresponsible breeder) or by experiencing an event that makes them fearful. Dogs can also be fearful if they are undersocialized and have not been exposed to different situations and environments. Unless it is addressed early, the fear becomes all encompassing and turns into a life-altering phobia.
Common things that dogs are fearful of:
- Fear of cars
- Fear of going to the vet
- Fear of people
- Fear of children
Some common phobias that dogs can develop:
If your dog has a phobia of anything – including certain sounds in the environment such as street noises, sirens, babies crying, children playing, fireworks, or thunderstorms, please take it seriously. It is best to seek qualified professional help, be very patient, go slowly, and avoid situations that might be overwhelming.
What Can Help Fearful or Phobic Dogs?
There are many ways you can lessen your dog’s fear.
- Thanks to years of research, there is solid proof that specially-designed bioacoustic music has a calming effect on dogs.
- Music has a positive effect when played in environments or situations that a dog might find overwhelming such as in a car, boarding facility, shelter, day-care or at the veterinarian. Music can also help promote relaxation when played at home or calm a dog that suffers from anxiety when left alone.
- Massage can help promote relaxation and lower stress levels.
- Certain scents and pheromones can be calming to dogs that are fearful, but you must research which ones will help, as there are many products on the market that might not be healthy, especially if something is strongly scented, like aromatherapy products.
- Teaching basic life skills and problem solving activities tend to be calming as the dog gets to think and problem solve, helping deactivate his emotional brain. This is why teaching cues and doing problem solving activities such as scent work helps to turn fear into curiosity.
- Providing dogs that are fearful with mental enrichment is vital. Providing him with interactive toys and puzzles will help stimulate his mind.
- If a dog is too overwhelmed to learn, medication might be needed. This will take the edge off the fear so your dog is able to learn again. Fear causes shut down and when a dog is shut down no learning can take place. Medication can help him get to a better place, but must only be used on the advice of your veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist.
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