Your Poodle's Fear of Thunder
and Other Loud Noises

Although a Poodle terrified of storms is no laughing matter, sometimes one can enjoy a little chuckle. A friend of mine once had a Saint Bernard who was terrified of thunderstorms. The only thing that would calm him down was to sit with her on the sofa. It was quite a sight to see this petite woman with this massive dog just about on her lap!

There are different opinions of why our dogs are scared of thunder and other loud noises. As far as thunder goes, some people believe that the sudden drop in air pressure or the build-up of static can cause their initial behavior. Pacing, whining and general anxiety can be a good indication that a severe thunderstorm is approaching.

The loud, abrupt noise that thunder or fireworks make is something strange to a dog and they don't understand it. They don't know why and how it is made or why it is there. All they know is that it is a foreign, deafening sound and definitely not part of their normal life.

It is not difficult to spot when your Poodle is scared of loud noises. Some dogs will only tremble, whine and try to hide, whilst others may be so terrified that they exhibit destructive behaviors.

Some dogs will chew furniture or even try to get out through a door or window. A big problem with this is that it can cause terrible harm to your dog. I know of dogs that have jumped through glass doors or impaled themselves on objects in these moments of terror. Many dogs try so desperately to get away from the noise that they break through fences and gates. The lucky ones find their way back home when things quiet down.

Unfortunately, many end up being killed by cars or in an animal shelter. You only have to go to animal shelters after some of these so-called "festive" days when firecrackers etc. are a constant thing and see how many terrified dogs end up there.

As we have no control over Mother Nature, we have to try to make things as comfortable as possible for our dogs when thunder strikes.

There are a number of things we as responsible, loving owners can do to make things easier for our Poodles. One way of treating the fear of loud noises is by desensitizing your dog. Although it might not cure your dog and make him fearless, it could help him cope better.

The idea is to subject your dog (under controlled conditions) to the noise that causes anxiety. This must be combined with something positive. Make a tape recording of the noise and start playing it at a very low level to your dog for a few minutes. Reassure your dog in a regular voice and rub his ears lightly. Gradually increase the noise level until after a week it is very loud. You want your dog to accept the noise and not associate it with something strange to fear anymore. You must be very careful to do this the correct way; otherwise, you might just make things worse. If you are not sure how to do it, consult your veterinarian or a behavior consultant.

When you are in the thick of things and your dog is terrified there are some things you could do to calm it down.

Try to create a place where your dog is not subjected to the noise as much and feels safe. Watch your dog and see whether he gives you an indication of where he feels safest. Playing soothing music to block out the threatening sound can also help to calm your dog. Ideally your dog must be able to leave the "safe place" and come back freely.

Try to distract your dog by playing a game or engage in some other activity before the noise is too loud. If it gets too loud and your dog starts showing fear and don't pay attention, stop the activity. If you carry on your dog might start associating this activity with the threatening noise.

One thing you definitely must not do is to "baby" your dog while he is so afraid. We are tempted to do this, but this might show the dog that it is good to be afraid and reinforce the fear.

On the other hand, never shout at him or hit him if he exhibits fear. Stay calm and talk to him in a normal voice.

If you've tried everything without success and are scared your dog might harm himself, it might be advisable to get medication from your vet.

Remember, whatever you do, our dogs are our responsibility and it is up to us to make sure that they are safe at all times.

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