How does noise affect dogs?

We all know that smell is dogs’ most developed sense, but the truth is that they also have a highly developed hearing capacity, hearing at a distance four times greater than people.

In addition, dogs have greater sensitivity to high-pitched sounds, which is why they are very sensitive to noises, especially louder noises, such as thunder or fireworks, which can really bother them and generate fear and anxiety.

How to calm a frightened dog

There are two fundamental factors to calming a frightened dog:

• Understanding that they are afraid, even if we know that there is no real threat.

• Keeping Calm Ourselves.

With this empathy and being calm, we can transmit security to our dog in different ways. If we are on the street, the most important thing is to move the dog away from the source of sound, whether it is fireworks, a truck or thunder, and get home as soon as possible.

It is very important not to yell at him or treat him roughly because we would be punishing his fear and the animal would become even more nervous. Humans must protect them and be their shelter when they are scared.

How do I know if my dog is scared?

Dogs communicate with their body. If a dog pulls its ears back, tucks its tail between its legs, and hunches its back, it's clear that the dog is scared.

Bristling hair, barking at what the dog believes to be a threat, getting between its owner's legs, trembling or wanting to run away are other behaviours that tell us that the dog is afraid.

In extreme cases, the dog can even suffer an epileptic seizure, so it is very important to know the degree of fear that our dog has of very loud sounds, such as fireworks and pyrotechnics.

Tips for calming a dog that is afraid of storms

If you are at home, Some tips to calm your dog are:

• To be calm, making little of the storm, and staying by his side as his place of shelter so that he feels safe.

• Put his bed in the quietest room in the house, close windows and lower the blinds to muffle outside noise. Bring him his blanket and toys and create a safe place for him as if it were a den.

• If he is just a little afraid, offer to play games or give him some treats to divert his attention from the noise.

• For extreme cases, there are collars and devices on the market that release tranquilizing substances.