Noise and Thunderstorm Phobia

What is it?

Noise aversion is a fear response to sounds such as thunder, fireworks, or traffic. Mild fear is normal; a phobia is an exaggerated, harmful fear that lasts well after the sound ends. Genetics can play a role, and certain herding and working breeds may be predisposed, but experience and learning matter too. Fear can begin in puppyhood, adolescence, or at any age after a frightening experience, and fear of one sound often spreads to others. Pain, such as an ear infection or arthritis, and hearing loss in older dogs can contribute.

What signs should I watch for?

Mild fear can look like panting, pacing, trembling, freezing, cowering, or hiding. Phobic dogs may panic, become extremely agitated, try to escape, or damage things, and may take a long time to recover. Refusing food during a storm is a sign the fear is strong. A senior dog (8 years or older) that newly becomes afraid of noises should be checked for a medical problem.

How is it diagnosed and treated?

Start with your veterinarian, who can look for medical causes and prescribe medications that reduce fear, including options for situations such as storms that cannot be avoided. Behavior modification can teach a dog to feel better about sounds; for moderate to severe fear it should be guided by a qualified behaviorist or skilled positive-reinforcement trainer, or a board-certified veterinary behaviorist. At home, create a safe haven in an inner room, muffle sounds with white noise or music, close blinds, and offer treats or a food toy if your dog will take them. Calm comfort is fine; never punish a frightened dog, since punishment increases fear.

Can it be prevented, and what's the outlook?

• Socializing puppies gently to many sounds before about 14 weeks, while avoiding frightening exposures, may help prevent noise fears.
• Without treatment they often get worse, and these dogs can develop other anxiety problems, but with medication and behavior work many dogs cope much better.