In times of war, our dogs may struggle with fear and anxiety. Loud explosions and sirens are even more distressing for them because their hearing is more sensitive. Here are some steps you can take to help calm your dog and keep them safe.
Keep Your Dog Indoors During Attacks
Make sure your dog stays indoors during bombings or airstrikes. If your dog panics and runs away, they could lose their way and be unable to return home. Inside, they are protected from the loud sounds and the dangers outside.
Don’t Reinforce Fear
When your dog experiences loud noises, they will look to you for guidance. While it’s natural to want to comfort them, avoid reinforcing their fear by offering too much attention or cuddles when they display anxious behavior. Instead, remain calm, confident, and guide them with positive reinforcement.
Counter-Conditioning Training
Prepare your dog for loud noises by gradually exposing them to sounds at low volumes. Reward calm responses with high-value treats, and slowly increase the sound level over time. This helps your dog associate loud noises with positive experiences, reducing their fear.
Create a Safe Space
Designate a small room or crate as a safe space for your dog during attacks. Make sure it’s away from windows. You can place a blanket over the crate or bed to provide extra security.
Teach Calm Commands
Train your dog to respond to calming commands like “lie down” or “go to bed” well before a crisis occurs. This way, you can guide them to a safe spot and help them stay calm when they’re anxious.
Don’t Punish Fear
Never punish your dog for being afraid. Fear is a natural reaction, and punishment will only worsen the situation. Instead, reward calm behavior and reassure them with your calm presence.
Provide Comfort Without Overdoing It
While giving your dog a blanket or a cozy spot to relax is helpful, avoid over-fussing. Too much attention during anxious moments may increase their fear. Keep things balanced, offer comfort but also encourage independence when dealing with their anxiety.
Use White Noise
Play white noise, such as a fan or radio, to help drown out the sounds of bombings. This creates a more soothing environment for your dog by masking the external noise.
Final Thoughts
During times of war, it’s important to help your dog cope with the stress caused by loud noises. By creating a safe environment, staying calm, and using training techniques, you can help reduce your dog’s anxiety. Remember, your calmness will guide them, and with time, they’ll learn to manage their fear better.
References:
https://www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/features/dog-storm-phobia
https://www.tasteofthewildpetfood.com/training-behavior/how-to-calm-your-dog-during-storms/
https://k9basics.com/home-remedies-to-calm-a-dog-during-a-storm/